Baby's First Christmas

Baby's first Christmas... wow. I'm still in awe of the reality our little family. We are so blessed.

I must first say that I am so thankful for some much needed time off, beginning on 12/23. I've worked for the same company for 8 years now and this is the first time I've taken a Christmas Eve off... I figured it was time for me to be a bit selfish. My staff was great. And it was worth it.

We began Christmas Eve with some donuts. Randy ran over to Martins to pick me up a Tiger Tail and him creme-filled chocolate-thingy. Mmm. MK had yogurt. Poor baby. Someday, she can have a donut too.  :)

Great-Grandma (Gigi) and Grandpa Hanson's was up next. We saw everyone - all at once - which was a welcome change from the transient holiday that we are used to at the Hansons. Santa came, we opened gifts, we ate. It was perfect. I remind myself how lucky I am to have grandparents in my life at age 30... and that my daughter has great-grandparents!

After a small mishap with the minivan (Yes, it involved a tow truck... *sigh*) we arrived at Randy's parents to mingle with the Perry/Styles families. Food, family, more gifts... Mary Kate was such a trooper.

We've decided that we are going to spend Christmas morning at our own home. Not only is it easier, but I think it's the beginning of a wonderful tradition of our own. Mary Kate got up around 10am (I LOVE having a kiddo that sleeps in!!) we opened our modest gifts and had some breakfast. It was relaxing and so special.

We then headed to my parents to enjoy the Bauers. 40 people, 5 gallons of bourbon punch, and countless cookies later... we got home around 1am, exhausted and happy. Once again, MK was amazing. How did we get so lucky to have a munchkin who is so flexible with us?! We were able to spend some time with my immediate family in a much quieter environment the day after Christmas, which was so enjoyable.

I'm still working on the thank-you notes... but we are... so very thankful. How can we not be?