And then a White Christmas

Since we didn't take any of our presents to Hawaii to open on the actual Christmas Day, we decided to have our own little second Christmas at home.  Amazingly, our Christmas tree survived being left home alone for two weeks without water.  It's a little droopy and sad looking, but it survived. 

Ethan completely cleaned up on presents, and this doesn't include all the toys and clothes and stroller GG and Grandpa got him in Hawaii.  I didn't think he understood much about the holiday this year, but when Aaron put him down next to his presents he started to do his excited dance.  He must kind of understand the present part.  :)

This picture wasn't taken last night, but it was the first gift he received this Christmas from Auntie Kristin and Uncle Nick.  Kristin knitted the blanket herself for the little man and it is so warm and cozy. 

Uncle Greg and Aunt Michelle gave him this cool lion that has a scent pocket (he enjoyed poking the eye over and over).  E also got a cool computer from Uncle Brian, which we have played with all morning.  He's pushing the buttons on his computer now as I write on mine.  Very cute.  Auntie Cari and Uncle Glenn got him iTune music, so now we can play little kid songs instead of mommy having to sing them.  This is a gift for everyone.  :)

Mom and Dad got E lots of balls of all sizes and textures, a few educational games and the best of all - Dad made E a set of wooden blocks.  I'll get a picture posted soon, they turned out great!

Nana and Poppy completely spoiled the little man.  He got a cool night light that puts stars on his wall, a noisy stuffed animal, lots of clothes (warm ones which he needed!), and a toy drum.  Yes, my mother, who had four kids of her own, got my child a toy drum.  Apparently pay back really is rough.  :) 

Here's E sporting one of his new fleece shirts from Nana and Poppy.  He's going to be a well dressed little man this winter!  Thanks to everyone for spoiling our little guy - he now has tons of toys to play with and learn from and things to wear!  We love you all!

And like on everyone's first Christmas, he enjoyed playing with the wrapping paper as much as the new toys.  Aaron and I also got fantastic gifts from the family - money, clothes, an Alaska gardening book (yea!), thermometer for outside (now we'll really know how cold it is here, yikes), golf gear, tea, and yummy pies.  We love that my sister and her hubby continued their tradition of getting Aaron and I fun games to play together with a new domino set.  Another year of fun for us!

Even with all the wonderful presents we received, it is the love of family and friends that make the holidays a special time for us.  We are thankful to have so many wonderful people in our lives!  Happy holidays!