More of Christmas Day

We really did have a good day. We opened our presents, Nathan made breakfast, then we played most of the day. We went to visit Peyton Marsh around lunch and then we all took naps that afternoon. Nathan grilled steaks for dinner and I made mashed potatoes- as you can see, Griffin liked the potatoes. It was different not being with our families, but I am so thankful to have a wonderful husband and son and I am grateful that Nathan was off and we were able to spend Christmas day together as a family.

Christmas Morning

Our first Christmas morning just the three of us

Griffin's gift from Santa- his very own chair

He really got into opening presents this year- he especially loved his trucks and tractors

This was Griffin's gift from Grandma and Grandpa and Mom and Dad. He loved it! It was about 40 degrees when we went out in his socks and pjs to look at it and we hardly got him back inside.

Looking at the Christmas Lights

Looking up at the tree at Zilker

Hugging mommy at the bonfire

We had a lot of fun at the Trail of Lights, and then 37th and Guadelupe. Griffin loved the lights, but not sitting in his stroller- crazy crowds of people fighting along a narrow strip- who could blame him

Bryson and Micah's Birthday Party

There is so much to see and do!

Wearing his curious George glasses

Playing with Daddy- he is so much fun!

Playing with Mommy

Playing with my friend Tori.

Griffin had a great time at his first "jumping party". Thanks to the Best family for inviting us!

First Family Movie Night

Watching "Cars" together

And now he's up- he lasted about 30 seconds

Main Street Bethlehem

If you have never been to Burnet to their Bethlehem village, you really aught to go. It is amazing. It is so much more than a live nativity- it is an actual village that you walk through at your own pace. It is really like stepping back in time. Griffin loved the animals and the fire- mostly he just loved running through the village like he owned the place.

Trip to Kentucky

We went to see my Dad's family on the 50th anniversary of his father's death. It was a long trip for us (we flew to Little Rock, then drove with my mom and dad to KY) but it was a neat experience and I am really glad we were able to make the trip

It was a long car trip, so Griff got to keep his "paci" most of the drive

Griffin loved Mema's walker- he called it "mee-mee's car"

Griffin was entranced while Aunt Suzanne sang "Must be Santa"













Ready for church on Sunday

More pictures of our trip

It was pretty cold in Searcy- good thing Griffin likes his hat!

This one was in KY, but I couldn't leave our cousin Jessie out. Griffin really took to her while we were there.

While we were in Searcy, Griffin got to go on a carriage ride around Harding. The lights are amazing there- I wish they had them up when I was in school

HE also went to the Bison basketball game with Grandma and Grandpa

Griffin loves him Grandpa

Decorating the Christmas Tree

Although we had a Griffin and a Christmas tree last year, in some way this feels like our first Christmas as a family. Griffin is old enough this year to know what is going on- and even to try and help. As you can see from the picture, he is a big help.

Putting the ornaments on the tree.

Realizing he can't take the ornaments off. So sad!

Breakfast with Santa

We went to the annual BCS Breakfast with Santa. Griffin was all ready to go- practicing saying Santa Claus (See Co) and Applebees (that is where it was held)...right up until we got close to Santa. You cannot tell from this picture, but the tears were flowing. This is as close as we got...the first try

Attempt#2 - Griff spots the car in the book and the candy Santa gives out. Is it worth it?

Moving closer...It seems safer with all the kids around.

Close enough to touch the picture of the car.

Still not thrilled with Santa, but at least he gave it a try and gave mom and dad their picture.