The Day After

It was chaotic, but amazing. I'm so thrilled to say that the twin's first Christmas was a success! We're looking forward to celebrating Christmas with my family sometime this week. We had to postpone because of the snow today (SAD!) It will be nice having something exciting to look forward to for the next couple of days, though.

Christmas day arrived bright and early. We spent time taking pictures and video of the kids opening their presents. They were PRECIOUS. Of course, their favorite thing to do was rip the wrapping paper, but we didn't mind. After their SHORT nap, Steve and I ran around the house packing the last of the gifts and kid stuff we needed to take to his parent's house. Josiah was throwing a fit, which meant by the time we got into the car, we were already a half hour late, sweaty and frustrated.

His family has a very intricate system for opening presents (although I'm convinced the "tradition" varies each year). It takes several hours. I was a little worried how the babies would do though it all, but his family was not only incredibly patient, but also bent the rules to accommodate the little ones. :) There was lots of laughter and relaxation. Both babies took a 2 1/2 hour nap which was HEAVENLY for us (Steve even had to wake up Jay so we could leave). We were a little concerned that in a new place with new sounds it would be a bit of an issue to put them to bed. It's so difficult for us when they don't nap well and we're out somewhere. Thankfully, everything went very smoothly.

We took the party back to our place so we could feed the twins dinner and put them to bed. By 6:30 they were snuggled away and we were able to eat dinner with everyone and watch a movie. Steve's sisters and mom even helped de-tag, wash, fold all new clothes and do the dishes. Soooo nice of them.

One of my Christmas presents this year (Steve really outdid himself!) was a small camera. I've been learning the nuances of how to use it. Although the flash is overkill, here are a couple pictures from today.

Steve's grandparents (Daddy Bill & Granny Rosie) purchased birthday candles for Josiah and Lilly. You burn a little bit every year and it's marked with milestones (riding a bike, etc.) throughout. Apparently it's a family thing as both their kids and Steve's brother and sisters had these. We're excited to light them next month!!! Thanks, guys!

Snuggling with daddy

New toys? YES!

I'M AWAAAAAKE!

Sleepy daddy and sleepy Lilly

Super cool Josiah toy! He loves to drag and hoard his toys in here!

She has lots of toys and prefers empty water bottles....hmm....

The boys are hiding out in there...the best thing about this tent is that it folds up into a little circle. It's currently tucked away under our couch.

EARLY this morning...