Christmas

Ella loves playing with her new kitchen. Brad and I have mathcing hats for the snow. Bailey was wondering why we looked so stupid.

Ella opening gifts on Christmas Day at moms.

Opening gifts on Christmas Day morning from Santa.

Christmas Eve right before church.

Christmas Day visiting dad at the hospital

Christmas Day morning.

Ella taking time to thank Nana for all of the great gifts she got her.

Having so much fun with Pops and SuSu.

I love having a tea party with Ella.

I am going to break the blog into sections since we have had so many fun things going on.

CHRISTMAS EVE:

Christmas Eve we were getting excited for the big arrival of Santa. We wanted to try to make sure Ella had an idea of what Christmas was about, so we all went to church. The service was beautiful. I saw the first 30mins and Brad saw the second 30mins and Ella understands Christmas is about hanging out in the church nursery playing and getting gifts. Hopefully next year she will understand. It is neat to see us creating our own traditions for our family. Christmas is special in so many ways, but having children brings it to a whole new light. After Ella was tucked in snug as a bug Mr and Mrs. Claus began the process of putting everything together. Ella made sure to leave Santa eggnog and cookies, which he greatly appreciated.

CHRISTMAS DAY:

I did not sleep very well with the anticipation St. Nick would soon be here. I could not wait for Ella to walk downstairs and see her gifts under the tree. She finally woke up and down we all went. She was excited about her kitchen and continues to play with it non-stop. All of her other toys were a big hit as well. Santa was good to Brad and I too. It was a very special morning for us. After a big breakfast and many hours of playing we packed up and headed to Knoxville. First stop was to pick up mamaw cox and we all headed to the hospital to see Dad. I hated he had to spend Christmas in the hospital, but I know Ella brightened his spirits. She went right to dad, did I mention he had cookies he was giving her? 2nd stop was my moms. She of course out did herself as she always does. The food was wonderful and the house was so warm and decorated for Christmas. Ella has a whole new wardrobe and 110 pieces of plastic food. This we could have done without. Ella's favorite thing to do is turn the bag upside down and spread the food all over our house. I must pick it up at least 10 times a day. Ella loves it though. It is always nice to spend Christmas at home with family.

FRIDAY:

To my surprise dad was able to go home on Friday so we had our real Christmas with all of them then. Ella made sure to show everyone how many things she had learned since the last time they saw her. Her favorites are dancing and blowing kisses. Each time she dances she picks up some new moves. Ella finally got her own little rocking chair from dad and Susan. She loves it and has spent alot of time in it rocking.

SATURDAY:

We made the trip back to Louisville where Bill and Susie met us. They were very good to us as well. Ella has a gift card that we are going to hold onto for alittle bit. We do not need anymore pieces of plastic around the house for awhile thanks to my mother :). Ella would disagree of course. It was so nice to see them and Ella had so much fun. She played hooky from school on Monday. Brad and I also had a few nights out, which are always much appreciated. We hope to see them soon, but we understand that the weather may keep them away for alittle bit.

Now we just have to get Ella to understand you do not open presents everyday and lay around with mommy and daddy doing nothing. It is sad that Christmas goes by so quick. I enjoyed this year so much. It makes you realize whether you have alot of money to spend or alittle just spending time with family is what is important.

Happy New Year I know it is going to be a great one for us.