The Loves: Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

What a wonderful Christmas we had this year! On Christmas Eve morning, dressed warm and cozy, we went over to the Koury's to celebrate with Nani, Papa, and the Tatums. We were able to relax and enjoy time with our family without feeling rushed and having to move on to the next location for the day. In fact, we didn't have anywhere to be until 4:00pm that evening. Audrey was able to play with her cousins until nap time. Nani prepared a delicious brunch that left us all feeling very fat and happy. That night, we went over to Aunty Cathy's house to celebrate with the Cirimeles. Once again, a yummy meal was prepared and enjoyed by all. Then, it was back to our house for drinks and desserts.

Merry Christmas Eve!

Audrey and Kaleb

Audrey and Abby

Audrey already has a couple of babies that she likes to take care of, but she loves her new baby doll that she got for Christmas. This baby actually drinks from the bottle, burps, and then falls asleep. Audrey is getting lots of practice for the arrival of her baby brother or sister in May. We already know that she is going to be a wonderful big sister!

Kaleb and Audrey eating the yummy brunch that Nani made.

Christmas Eve at Aunty Cathy's house.

Another fun tradition that our family has is that no presents can be opened until the children sing a Christmas song. My cousins and I used to be those children, but as of last year, the jingle bells have been passed down. Here is a picture of Kaleb and Audrey singing, "Jingle Bells".

Here are the children who used to sing the first Christmas song of the evening, my cousins Megan and Erin, me, and my sister, Jennifer.

On Christmas Eve night, Audrey was beginning to show signs that she wasn't feeling very well. Sure enough, Aaron and I were up for hours at a time, comforting a sick baby. Getting up early Christmas morning was rough, but Audrey was a trooper. She definitely wasn't herself, but you would never know it by looking at the pictures below. She tried her best to put on a happy face and make it through the day. This year, for the first time ever, our sweet family of three had Christmas morning all to ourselves. We sang Happy Birthday to Jesus, opened a few presents, and ate a big breakfast together. We didn't have to be at the Kourys until noon. It was awesome!!

Audrey got her first tricycle from Mommy and Daddy.

This was the expression that was on Audrey's face after almost every single gift she received.

Aaron and I

The Loves trying our best to get a family picture on Christmas.

Audrey with her Nani and Papa.

After celebrating with the Kourys, we drove out to the Loves for the rest of the day. It was a nice change this year, compared to the past. The holidays didn't seem as stressful and we were able to fully enjoy the time we had with family.

Audrey with her grandma and grandpa.

Audrey and her cousin Maci. These two are only five weeks apart and when they get together they have so much fun playing with each other.

To celebrate the arrival of the New Year, we went to a friend's home to have drinks, appetizers, and just to hang out. The little ones played together and even slept together when the time came. We had 6 big kids sleeping in one room, 3 little ones in another room, and 1 little one in the last bedroom available. Yes, 10 kids, 3 rooms, all asleep at one time. Impressive! We had so much fun ringing in the new year, 2010, with some of our very closest friends. We can't wait to see what the Lord has planned for the Loves, and we want to wish you all a Happy New Year!