White Christmas

We had a happy, successful trip to Ohio for Christmas! Lainey traveled well and was spoiled beyond belief! Even though I scolded their overindulgence, Uncle Chris and Uncle Sean get mega points for buying all soundless toys. (And it just so happens that the duplo Legos and animal pop-up are her favorites.) Grandpa didn't hold back either. He was shameless in showering his little granddaughter with gifts. Our apartment currently looks like a ravaged Toys R Us.

Elaine had a blast leading her Uncle Chris all around the house and having him do her bidding. "Sit down. Walk. Up." And I enjoyed sitting on my rear and letting him do the heavy lifting with her (thanks again, Chris!).

Of course Grandpa got his fair share of being bossed around with some cuddling in between. Although I don't think he ever managed to get that kiss. Elaine is a real Scrooge with her kisses lately.

A big snow storm hit Ohio on Wednesday and while it made our travel back to Chicago a little harrowing the first few hours, it also gave us a chance to get Lainey out into the white stuff for some play. I was very happy, because my gift to Mark was a sled for Lainey. It may seem strange to most to give him a gift for her, but he'd been talking non-stop about playing in the snow with her. He loved it! As suspected, we probably spent an equal amount of time dressing Lainey for the outdoors as we spent at play, but it was worth it. She was adorable in her little snow pants.

The real gift Mark and I gave each other was sending Lainey to daycare on Thursday even though we didn't go to work. We love our little peanut to pieces, but it was nice having time to ourselves. It was our first full day alone in exactly 18 months. We didn't have any great adventures--just went back to sleep after dropping Lainey off, had a nice lunch, and then watched a movie on the couch. It was awesome!

So onward and upward to 2013! I just know our luck is going to take a change for the better. Lainey will return to sleeping, we'll find the perfect house, and best of all, we'll welcome Baby Brandi #2!!!

Kisses from Uncle Chris

Lainey loved her rocking horse from Santa!

 

Sitting pretty

Checking out the tree with Grandpa

So much snow!

Yummy! (We're teaching her to avoid the yellow stuff!)

Happy family! Merry Christmas!