joy to the small world...

This Christmas was special in its own way... bittersweet really. This was our first Christmas without Ryan's mom, and without seeing any of his family... this season made us realize even more than ever how she was the glue that held the family together, and how dearly missed she is. All of us kids spent Christmas Eve with my mom, then after church we all went to my dad's to spend the night and wake up to a traditional Christmas morning breakfast. I think we are all growing accustomed to Jayme being the only one who gets presents... and this year was nothing short of being spoiled and loved on by her aunts/uncle, grampa, and nana! With plenty of surprises under the tree, Jayme had a surprise of her own to share on Christmas...

helping nana grate eat the cheese for chicken tortilla casserole

exploring a nice neighbor-lady's tree house (so awesome... i took enough pictures so ryan can one day recreate this!)

Christmas morning breakfast preparations

sock-monkey jack-in-the-box... smelling her new authentic cowgirl boots from taycie... trying out her new trike from uncle alex... stylin' with her new threads, boots, and finger in the nose (not pretty)... playing with grampa

 

 Jayme shares with Tacyie

 

Jayme's present to grampa Christmas morning

santa visit...

As we waited in line to get our picture with Santa, I grew anxious wondering if this would be the year everyone with kids has warned me about (just FYI-Brea Mall Santa is the best! The guy is the nicest and most legit looking Santa I've EVER seen... beard, jolly red cheeks and all!) Last year was great... Jayme snuggled, played with his beard, and even smiled for the camera! This year however... not so thrilled to sit on Santa's lap... She was all smiles and waves excited to see this jolly old man, UNTIL I placed her on his lap.... all I can say is- priceless.

Jury is still out on whose reaction is better... Santa or Jayme???

Santa is composed... Jayme is not

at this point I am sweating trying to dance and entertain her to get a hint of a smile

creeped out or being tickled???

"mommmmmmaaa"

"alright. you got your smirk/smile... are we done now?"