Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve was a busy and good day. We cooked all morning. Then Uncle David and Grandma stopped out for a visit. Paul loved his new toys from them, blocks, a bus and new binoculars. Then we went over to Chris's parents for a 7 Fishes Christmas Even dinner. Paul had lots of fun playing with Chris's niece, Odessa.

Then it was off to church; Robin did the nursery for Paul so we sat and relaxed. She said he was crazy!

Then we came home and played "Baby Jesus" with the nativity set and sang Happy Birthday to Jesus. We opened a couple presents. I got my pasta making set, I can't wait to use it. Shawn got the news we'll be going to a Pitt b-ball game in March. Paul got his new drill set. He loved it so much, especially his new safety glasses. He cried when we tried to take them off, even though I think the mark of them looks like it will forever be ingrained in his face. Hopefully he will go to bed at a decent time so we can get the tree ready!!

Paul and Olivia's Gift Exchange

We had a very nice visit with Dina and Olivia last night. Olivia is up and walking now and likes to chase Paul. It sure is hard to get them both to look at the camera at the same time. She got Paul a Boomer Fire Station and they both had fun playing with it and with all Olivia's toys.

Farmer George

Paul and I had a nice walk up to 70 today to watch the "beeping trucks" across the highway at the township building. We came back to find Farmer George clearing brush from the fence row with the exciting news that he was planning to get cows in the spring. Paul had a nice rest on his lap after our long walk.

Sled Riding

We went sled riding yesterday for the first time this year. Paul loved it, and it was a great way to wear him out since he had to keep walking back up the hill. His snowsuit was getting too small so I got him a new one today. He looked a lot like the kid from a Christmas Story, but it kept him warm! He enjoys carrying around the big chunk of ice that came out of the sled. He was very excited today to get to sled ride with Dave, who stopped to visit on his way to Crystal's moms.

Acting Debut

Paul was a shepherd in church today for the kids' little skit. He was very excited about his costume, especially the staff. He did very well standing up in front of the church and holding things up as instructed. However, when it came time to pass out the candy canes he got scared!

Lots of Company

We had a very nice weekend. On Friday night, Katie and Bill, Shawn's bass player from his old band, came down to visit. It was really nice to catch up with them, we hadn't seen them since our party over the summer. Paul had lots of fun playing with Katie and the next morning he was asking, "Where's Katie?"

Yesterday evening Chris came over to help Shawn bottle his homemade wine. It was a very messy job and Paul was fascinated. He has been laying down towels on the floor and doing his own "messy jobs" ever since. Chris did a good job reading Thomas to Paul while I got my shower. They had a jam session and Paul loved playing the bongos.

Christmas Dance Party

It is getting to be a challenge to entertain Paul inside all day on these cold days. Tonight's activity was a Christmas music dance party. Even Cana enjoyed dancing with us. We also discovered color wonder markers tonight, which are great!