Christmas Eve

One tradition we have with our friends is a gift exchange. This year we exchanged gifts at Kelli and Kyle's house. So, this was officially Kiera's first Christmas present! Thanks, Bill and Terri! She really loves it.

Gabriel got his gifts from his Godparents Daniel and Holly. We haven't played with the Moon Sand yet, but he likes the police man parts for his Mr. Potato Head.

Christmas Eve we were able to spend some time with both sides of my family. First we went to my parent's house for dinner, and then we went to my aunt Nancy's house for presents, Santa, s'mores, and spending some time with family we don't see too often. Then we stayed up wrapping gifts and putting things together. One of the best things about having children is seeing them so happy and realizing how their happiness can make you so incredibly happy! Edward and I are so blessed.

Kiera with her Great-Grandma Crow and below Edward reading "T'was the Night Before Christmas" to the kids before leaving Aunt Nancy's house.

Christmas Preperations

I've been slacking on the posts lately, but we have been busy preparing for Christmas!!!

Edward, Gabriel, and I put up the Christmas lights. I have yet to remember to take a picture at night. I must say we did a great job, though!!

Here we are with after picking out our Christmas tree!

The kids had a great time even though it was raining a little bit.

Traditionally, Auntie and Uncle Steve go with us to pick out a tree! The kids love it!!!

Grandpa has been visiting, so he helped us pick out a tree and get it set up.

Gabriel had to help carry the tree in!

Here it is. Hopefully I will post some pictures of it all decorated along with pics of the outside lights.

Auntie and The Godfather

I have some really cute pictures of Auntie Leia and Uncle Steve (aka The Godfather) with Gabriel and Kiera, so I thought I would share!!!

Kiera relaxing with her Godparents!

Genuine Happiness!!!

Auntie with the kids in the snow. We went to a breakfast with Santa and they had snow for the kids to play in!

Week 11

Edward starts week 11 of 19 this week! They started wearing uniforms a couple of weeks ago so a stole a quick shot. I am really proud of him!!! Graduation is just 9 weeks away!!

Kiera and Gabriel were able to enjoy spending good quality time with thier dad over Thanksgiving!

Daddy and Kiera especially like taking naps together!

Catching Up - Thanksgiving

Edward took the kids to do some Christmas shopping (maybe Gabriel is talking enough that I can get something out of him :) he he) so I have a few minutes to update.

Well, we were supposed to spend Thanksgiving in CA this year, but with Edward in the academy he isn't supposed to travel and he didn't want to chance taking the trip. Instead his family came out to visit us!

Great-Grandpa and "the boss" and his "princess"! Those are his special nicknames for them!

Grandma and Kiera (a little blurry because the battery in the camera needed charging)

Auntie Linda and Kiera

Uncle Walter and Kiera

We had such a great time and we can't wait to see them again soon!!! We love and miss you all!!