Everyone always says that Christmas is so much more special through a child's eyes. That is so true! Gwyneth's eyes have just lit up time and time again these past few weeks, seeing lights and trees and big ole' packages just for her to tear into. We have been so blessed to have this special time as a family. Gwyneth must've had some dirt on lots of people, including Santa- because the child got SO much stuff. Yesterday was Christmas Eve- I cooked another big meal, basically the same food that we had when Pat was here on Sunday. Oh my gosh, it was soooo good. Then we took Gwyneth and had our family portraits done (see previous post). We tried our best to make it back in time for Christmas Eve Mass, but just missed it. We came home and just enjoyed quality time as a family. Christmas morning was a madhouse. Gwyneth was so excited opening all her gifts. Santa brought her the Bounce and Spin Zebra, the Little People Barn and a shape sorter toy. Grandma in New York sent a big Zoo Animals toy and a bathtub submarine toy. Grandma also sent some board books for Gwyneth. She sent Mommy a beautiful Willow Tree figure for her collection and Daddy some books about sailing and climbing. Mama Sue and Uncle Ben sent Gwyneth some CUTE new boots and clothes (they are awaiting her visit to Tennessee in January to give her toys) and a nice monetary gift for Mommy and Daddy. One of her favorite items had to be that from Grammy and Grandpa (Barbara and Rich Sr.)- the Doodle Pro. She was beside herself opening that gift- I have included a video...the best part is her reaction at the end (yes- most of this video is sideways- sorry I forget). She also got her "Very First Bible" from them. Grandmother (Pat's mom) sent us all money- in which we have ordered Gwyneth a portable DVD player for the car (will be so handy with all our trips to Tulsa, etc.). Rich and I got clothes for one another. He also got a dock for the IPod and I got some Bath and Body Works lotion- those were our smaller 'surprise' gifts for one another. Nice. Oh- and a special thanks to Aunt Lana and Uncle Bob in Florida for our surprise gift card! How nice! But I think the biggest gift we received this Christmas has been God's blessings- which seem to keep falling upon us. Let us remember He is the reason for the season. We hope you all had an amazing holiday season. God bless!!!
What an AMAZING day!!! We are so blessed. It was just the three of us on this special holiday. Our day started with me finishing the cooking. Our awesome spread included: roasted turkey breast, dressing, hashbrown casserole, corn, green bean casserole, gravy, rolls and chocolate silk pie. All but the pie and the rolls were homemade with a dash of love. We ate a late lunch- around 1:30 or so. Then we had pie and coffee while enjoying the beautiful day on our front porch. The temp actually got up to the mid-60's today. Nice. Then we took Gwyneth to the park to swing and play in the dirt (thanks Daddy). Rich, Gwyneth and I took a nice stroll by the river before heading home. The day ended with Gwyneth tucked neatly in her bed while we snuggled on the couch and watched a movie. Rich and I both had a few really nice conversations today with extended family also. There is so much for which we are so very thankful...to have our health, such wonderful family, a beautiful and healthy daughter, another princess on the way, a good job for Rich...oh our list could go on and on!!! We hope our friends and family experienced a wonderful holiday as well.
