Christmas Time 2010

This past Christmas was one of the best we've celebrated. Steve's parents came and spent the holiday with us making it that much more enjoyable. It was heartwarming to see Ayla and Holden bond with them. We spent some time in Seattle and went to the Harry Potter Exhibit. Although it was really crowded we thought it was pretty cool to see everything and how they showcased the exhibit was impressive. It rained a lot while they were here but we made the best of the days we had.

On my quest of trying to find things to do I came upon The Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island. Not knowing what it was all about we decided to get out of the house and check it out. And we were so glad we did. The Bloedel Reserve is one of the most beautiful gardens around here. Even though it was raining we enjoyed walking around the grounds and breathing in the fresh air.

Christmas Eve was spent with both sides of the family. We had a delicious prime rib dinner with scalloped potatoes and Yorkshire pudding. And my mother-in-law made an amazing eggnog pudding pie. Which has now become one of our favorites and will be a must have for the holidays. After stuffing our faces and putting our bodies into a food coma we heard something. Stomping coming from upstairs. Followed by a Ho Ho Ho. Santa Clause had come to visit!

The kids were beyond excited and couldn't believe that Santa was in their presence. The smiles and wide eyes gave each of us parents a feeling of nostalgia. It was something special. Santa spent time with Giselle, Ayla, Brock and Holden giving them all a candy cane and a present. Each of them told him what they wanted for Christmas and that they were all so very good.

It's always nice to get together with family and have a fun time.

After tucking the kids in bed Santa paid a little visit and with the help of his elves putting together toys for Christmas morning.

After some convincing Steve finally gave into letting us big kids open gifts. We spent the rest of the night opening presents with Steve's parents. One of the things Steve and I enjoy is watching the expressions on his parents faces as they open their gifts. It's a great feeling knowing that we can make them feel loved and appreciated.

Christmas morning was all about the kids. Santa did not disappoint. They didn't know where to begin and what to play with. But the happiness on their faces told us that they were enjoying every moment.

One of the highlights of our time with Steve's parents was teaching them how to play Wii. We decided to play bowling. After the first few attempts Steve's mom was having a little bit of a hard time and wanted to give up. But after some encouragement and a few more practice turns she was ready to play. And play she did. The first four frames were strikes! Followed by spares. Steve could not believe it. There was no way he was going to let someone beat him at a video game. Especially his mother. She was on a roll and having a great time while Steve was strategizing in his head. In the end Steve barely won with a score of 212 while his mom scored a 210.

We had a wonderful holiday with all of our family and friends. And here's to a fabulous New Year! Cheers!