Merry Christmas 2011

So this is LONG overdue, but I figured better late then never! We had a wonderful Christmas this year and were so excited to actually have started real traditions in our little family. This is the first year that Landon knew what was going on, and what happens on Christmas morning. We also wanted to teach Landon about the real reason of celebrating Christmas. We woke up a bit earlier than the kids so that Paul could turn on the Christmas tree lights and some Christmas music. When the kids woke up we sang Happy Birthday to Jesus, brushed teeth and as we were going downstairs, Landon yelled "Santa came!". Opening gifts was so much fun and it just made us more excited for next year when Elle will be able to 'really' participate in the tradition!

One of our new traditions that we have started is to make Jesus a birthday cake! Landon wanted a dinosaur cake for Jesus, so this was my best effort haha...green icing!

We managed to hold Landon off from tearing apart all of the gifts for a quick picture in front of our little tree. Our family and friends are absolutely amazing for helping "Santa" bring more gifts for the kiddos! Thank you all so much!! We love you!
Landon got the biggest stocking this year!
Baby girl really liked her baby doll...and now that it's been a few weeks since Christmas I can say that Landon has really enjoyed being Mommy's big helper...so much that he insists on 'trying' to change Elle's diaper frequently throughout the day. I am hoping this phase ends soon because it's not the nicest of phases haha. But, going back to the doll, Landon practices changing it's diaper and says, "Mommy, I a very big helper".
Her new winter coat that Daddy picked out for her!
I managed to get one quick smile (I had to beg for it) while Landon was opening his gifts. He can turn into one focused little man...wonder where he gets that from, Paul? :)
One of my favorite moments of the morning. My Christmas kiss from my little man.
In Elle's stocking, Santa brought her one of her favorite things...canned veggies!
Hahaha and then this is what happened! My girl already knows that she wants the finer things in life haha. :)
Aunt Lonnie and Uncle Dave sent Landon and Elle this awesome tent! It is now in Landon's room and has become a wonderful helper during nap time when Landon doesn't feel like he wants to take a nap! He has nice quiet time in his 'fort' playing with all of his toys. :)
Santa brought Landon dinosaur boots. He to this day always asks to wear them, especially to school.
Poppy came over to exchange a few gifts!
Daddy and Landon decided to play in the tent for a while. :)
Poppy brought Landon a yellow Hummer that plays hip hop music and literally drives around dancing, flashing lights and popping wheelies. Landon was a bit overwhelmed at first, but has now developed a nice little dance to go with the music.
Once we were done opening gifts, Landon decided to organize some of his and take a close look at them all. :)
Having some quiet time with Beyah after our exciting morning.
Elle received so many beautiful clothes from her Aunts and Uncles and we were trying them all on! I just like this cute little 'almost' naked pic. :)
After nap time, we headed over to GG and Papa's for another little Christmas get-together! Landon insisted on wearing his dino boots and new pjs.
My Mom and I made Christmas cookies together a few days before Christmas! They were quite delicious!
When we did gifts with GG and Papa, Landon was Santa's helper with passing them out.

Lee and Paul enjoying the gift-giving-outs by Landon.

Elle's first pig tails! I have been so excited to do this! She looks so cute!

Landon and Elle crawling on and wrestling with Daddy.
Towards the end of the evening, my baby girl and I were having some snuggle time.
We had a wonderful Christmas and are so thankful! Looking forward to living out our traditions each and every year!