Christmas, 2011

To see all the photos from our Christmas, click HERE!

The note we left for Jillian before going to bed.  She snuck out of bed in the night and read it but, "knew it was not true yet because the sun was still in Egypt."  Side story for Christmas this year- Jillian does not believe in Santa.  Long story, but the short version is that she asked me point blank, and I answered.  Ryan and I never had over the top Santa experiences as children so we're not heartbroken about this.  The only trouble is at the grocery store (or insert other errand here) where adults ask, "Are you excited about Santa?" and she nods politely or says things like, "yes, wouldn't that be a fun idea."  lol.  After this happens she always wants to have a conversation about how silly these people are and how they, "didn't know she already knew the secret that is for adults".  Oh... this kid...

Ryan was VERY excited to buy a telescope "mostly for Jillian but to share with the whole family".  He was however, unaware this gift would require him to get a serious education in astronomy.  We're getting there...

I ADORE how Liv is excited about anything anyone else is excited about.  She's such a sweet girl.

Liv's favorite gift:  Jillian's new rain boots.  And, candy.

Evan got a football & other fun baby items.  He looks less that enthusiastic in this photo because he was EXHAUSTED and his mother thought it was a good idea to make him push through his morning nap for the sake of Christmas morning photos.   That mother of his is obsessed with photos. 

Love her. 

Love him.

Love how our kids will "cheers" with any beverage they may be drinking.  Bonus if they are drinking out of glass cups.

Love how Jillian said her favorite thing I "made" for breakfast was a sliced strawberry.  She went on and on about how nice it was.  Of course using as many descriptive words as possible.  She was far less enthusiastic about the eggs, or hash browns. 

Liv was less verbal about how great our breakfast was... more visual, and more appreciative of hash browns. 

Evan checking out his new toys. 

Last one...  I love that these people are mine.  I love that even though sometimes I feel a little left out hardly being on the other side of the camera I feel better knowing that the photos I'm capturing are the things that MY eyes are seeing.  These are my memories in concrete form.  You can't beat that!  I love these people with all of my heart.  They are the most important things to me in the world.  Merry Christmas, everyone!