Christmas 2012

Its the last few hours of 2012 so I figured while I was waiting for the ball to drop I would update my blog.  We have truly had a blessed year.  To think that one year ago we hadn't even met our sweet Grace.  Amazing how I cannot remember a time without her.  I went into get her after her nap today and there she was standing up.  She got so excited to see me she fell over clapping her hands.  So proud of her new accomplishment.
 

But it has been a funfilled Christmas vacation.  I have tried to pack in as much "fun stuff" as possible.  We started our 3 (yes THREE) weeks off with a playdate at Catch Air with lots of Jake's panda and Julianna's bunny friends.  Then the weekend before Christmas hit us and we were last minute shopping and I was a wrapping idiot!  Christmas Eve we dressed up and went to the children's service...which was exactly 35 minutes long and I was sooo thankful, not sure I could have lasted much longer.  Can they not just sing Jingle Bells?

After church we rushed home to put cookies, carrots and milk out for Santa and off to bed the little ones went.  Julianna made a final appearance about 8:00 and after she was asleep we started to bring up the gifts.  Once again I went overboard but who doesn't?  I really don't think anyone was more excited than I was for Christmas morning.

Thankfully Jake slept until 7:00 and was very patient while Brian went down to set up the video camera.  They ran in and the fun began!  They got all kinds of stuff and were so overwhelmed.  Luckily we had a little break and ate some breakfast then skyped with Grandma and Poppy while they opened those presents.  Technology is awesome!  We spent the day putting toys together and playing.  Then we continued our sinful tradition of going out to dinner.  I know it goes against all the rules but seriously, no cooking, no dishes, no stress!

The day after Christmas we went to the Aquarium.  We have annual passes and we have taken advantage every chance we get.  Julianna is in love with the Sea Otters.  I really think if they gave her a chair she would sit there for an hour watching them.  The dolphins are also a big hit.  They put on a show and its so fun to watch.

The weekend after Christmas (I told you we have packed in a ton of fun!) Brian's family came to visit.  And there were people everywhere, which made it so fun.  Kids were in sleeping bags in the basement adults were everywhere but it was great family fun.  Brian's sisters and their families stayed an extra night and we got two babysitters and went out to dinner.  So much fun to have a night to ourselves!  Hopefully everyone will come back again next year!

Julianna went to Sandersville for a couple days of Nana/Papa Chuck time.  I have heard a good report so far.  But Jake misses his partner in crime.  He has talked about her since she left and he is moping around the house.  "Mommy, it sure is quiet without Julianna."  "Don't you think its about time we call and check on Julianna."  Poor kid, as much as she aggravates him he is like a little lost puppy without her.

It has been a wonderful year.  I look forward to what 2013 has in store for us.  Next up on the McNeely calendar of fun is DisneyWorld.  22 days and counting!