This Christmas was bittersweet. I love this time of year… the carols, the lights, the decorating, the baking… and it’s magical with a house full of small children. We were really looking forward to celebrating our first Christmas in our new house, and having all of our family together under one roof.

Nana’s sister, Auntie Ish, flew out from New Zealand, and spent Christmas with us. It was such a treat having her here, and for the boys to get to know her.

Losing Jonathan’s dad the week before was very hard, and Christmas definitely wasn’t the same without him. But it came just the same, and I’m proud to say we made the most of it despite everything.

At some point during the Christmas season, Silas learned to say  “cookie.”

Christmas Eve began with a little wine tasting

“Hey ladies!”

Kieron playing the traditional Christmas Eve dice game

Santa paid us a visit on Christmas Eve!

Silas was spellbound!

After the kids went to bed… this isn’t obscene at all!

Christmas morning

Christmas dinner

And the kids table

Auntie Ish & Little Si

So glad I remembered to get the camera out for some family shots before everyone left

I promised Nicole we’d break out my old dance shoes before she left. Here we are tapping it up in the garage (she was so excited to wear heels)!

And here’s a picture from dog-sitting our neighbor’s adorable labradoodle, Lady, the day after Christmas