Monday, December 27, 2010

Christmas Day 2010

The kids loved their presents!


This was the first time that Ella was really able to unwrap presents and she had a great time.


Digging into her stocking . . .


James had told Santa that all he wanted for Christmas was the Mario Galaxy Wii game, and that's what Santa left for him!


Ella sitting in the bath tub of her new baby care center. Too funny!


Look at this gorgeous face . . .


All dressed up in the Christmas outfit that her Great Grandfather picked out for her! She looked like a little doll. Thanks Papa Okie and Jane!


My Dad and sister Amy arrived from Maine at about noon. What a treat! Here is Ella opening a Victorian ornament from her Peepaw (as she calls Grandpa).


Dad was able to get a sleigh bell for James to coincide with the Polar Express story. James loved it and the handmade box that Dad made so much that he said "Grandpa! I'm going to put this in my collection!" He was referring to the collection of fossils, shells and feathers that Dad has been helping him to grow. The look of pride on my Dad's face was unforgettable.


Dad brought Ella this dollhouse for Christmas. We had seen it at an indoor flea market a few months back and Ella had fallen in love with it. It comes with people and furniture and everything! She calls it "My dollhouse" and she won't let James near it. It is the first thing she plays with every morning and the last thing she plays with before bed.


Dad gave James a whole box of vintage stamps, art supplies and puzzles. Each box is a work of art in itself.


Ella opening a box with all of the dollhouse furniture . . .


A little later in the day, everyone was playing Super Mario Brothers on the Wii. James was in HEAVEN as playing the Wii is a very special treat and his Auntie Amy and Grandpa and his Dad were playing with him!


One of the best shots of the day:


Amy brought a red bean bag for Ella. James already had one and the two of them squabble over it constantly, so this present was really for me I think! Thanks Amy!


A photo of Amy, Ella, James and Dad right before they left to drive back to Maine. Dad brought Beezus, his Beagle. She was exhausted from the day's excitement!


This was our second Christmas without Mom. I know she was in the back of everyone's mind as we celebrated together. I so wish she was there with us to share in the warmth and joy that our little family shared together that day. But instead of feeling sad, I am smiling, thinking that she watched all of the fun we had being together and was happy for us.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

XOXO

Allison

5 comments:

Kelly said...

Oh my gosh...your little ones are so cute. I remember those days soooooo well! Your dad looks like he's really enjoying the time with the kids. Have a wonderful holiday week, and a Happy New Year!

Jayne said...

Christmas is just so much more magical when you can see the light and joy in little ones. Your photos made me smile Allison. :c)

Allison said...

Happy New Year to you too, Kelly!

Thanks, Jayne. Glad they made you smile. That's what its all about. ;-)

Auntie Amy said...

The look on James'face in that last photo is priceless!

Three Sisterz said...

Looks like you had a great time w/your family in the new place. So great that your kids are growing up with and appreciating vintage items. I bet your mom would love that!