Christmas Day

Christmas update part 2 of 2. This Christmas was the first and only Christmas we will have without children. So we did what we think any sensible person would do…  We did NOT set a single alarm, and allowed ourselves to sleep in and take Christmas morning at a slow pace. Our Christmas was full of celebrating Jesus’ birth, love, joy and fellowship. 

Santa came! Santa came!!! The stocking order is: Tadpole, Andrew, me, and Hoshi

Our yummy breakfast that I made. ^_^

 We started off our morning opening stockings. Tadpole sure made out for not being outside the womb yet. Santa sent her many different things to bless her with, and we also got a few things for her as well. We also got Tadpole her first stuffed animal from both of us: Blueberry the puppy. 

Tadpole's stocking gifts

Blueberry

 We had a fun loving morning together as we took our time opening stocking gifts, eating breakfast and then opening up tree gifts, and thought about what it will be like next year to have Tadpole crawling around and actually being able to enjoy her gifts. We also took much time to talk about being thankful for the gift of Jesus, and the true meaning of Christmas. Even though we both missed our parents dearly, I really truly enjoyed our first Christmas together.

Later that day Andrew and I hosted the Brady gathering at my sister’s house (our place is too small to invite everyone over at once…). I think one of the highlights of the gathering was seeing everyone’s surprise and excitement to see Derek home for Christmas. He’s been off at army training and didn’t tell anyone, including his parents and sisters, if he would be home for Christmas or not. Derek actually asked Andrew and me to pick him up from the airport so we could take him home and surprise his family. It was an honor and a joy to do so, and see his family’s excitement when he walked through the door.

Greeting DJ at the airport. I was very excited to see my nephew!

 My other favorite highlight of the Brady gathering (besides being able to be with my family) was the surprise gift my Aunt Janet made for our little Tadpole. She made an adorable hat and matching blanket for her. I can’t wait to put Tadpole in them both! Thank you so much Aunt Janet!

The adorable hat

And matching blanket.

 Christmas was a blessing! After all the Brady’s left, Andrew and I stayed at my sister’s house to open up the gifts my mom sent us all, have a tasty dinner, and then play the game Last Word. So much fun!

I <3 my family

My mom made aprons for us sisters (including Beth and Amy)

Christmas baby bump picture. Andrew didn't want to feel left out. hehehe

Thank you, Jesus, for being born a baby, growing and being an example for us all, and then dying on the cross to save us all from sin if we ask you into our hearts. Merry Christmas!