The Magic of Christmas

Chris echoed my sentiments exactly when he told me yesterday that this was the best Christmas in a really long time.  I couldn't agree more.  Everything about the holidays this year was a lot of fun and most especially because the kids understood a lot more and were really excited about all of the different things along the way.  We had some snags like a touch of the stomach virus, but for the most part, we had a fantastic time.  After the last of our family had left on the day after Christmas, I think we all had a touch of the "darn, it's really over now feeling".  With all of the excitement and fun brought a quiet afterwards that often feels a bit depressing.  However, in looking back through the pictures, I can honestly tell you that Christmas was really magical and I am thankful that Colin and Kailey brought that feeling back for me (and Chris too!) again.  

We have been celebrating Christmas for days and all started when my family was over on Sunday since my brother Tim, his wife Val and son CJ were up a bit early since they went back to North Carolina for Christmas.  

Then, on Christmas Eve, we had a bit of a crazy morning.  Kailey had been fighting the stomach virus on and off since last Wednesday night.  She generally had been ok, minus a lack of appetite and some unpleasant diapers but when she woke up on Christmas Eve morning, came into our bed, only wanted milk (had 2 cups) and then proceeded to throw up all over me and our bed.  She was fine after that since she wanted MORE milk and had breakfast.  However, we had to spray down our bed with arm & hammer pet and odor eliminator which Kailey later found while I was giving Colin a shower and covered herself in it and may have ingested some.  The pediatrician at first just said to clean her up and her mouth and keep an eye on her, but she quickly broke out in a rash on her chest.  The pedi became concerned so we were sent to the ER.  Thankfully it was a very quick visit and she was fine (the rash cleared up before I even checked in) but gave us a scare nonetheless!

We spent the rest of the afternoon and night with Chris' side of the family at our brother and sister in-laws house.  The kids were kindly spoiled with gifts and we had a great meal and quality family time spent together.  

Santa came and left lots of fun gifts for the kids.  Aside from a rough start from Kailey (she is NOT a morning person whatsoever), the kids loved opening presents and seeing what they got.  

After a fun morning, we were then off to my grandparent's house to celebrate with my mom's side of the family.  I couldn't believe how willing the kids were to pose in their Christmas outfits!

The day after Christmas brought more family time with it but once all of the partying was over, it was safe to say, we had one tired little boy.  

It really was a fantastic holiday with Chris and the kids and all of our extended family.  We are SO grateful for the wonderful ways in which our kid were spoiled with gifts from everyone and for making it a wonderful holiday.  Merry Christmas!!