Christmas Morning 2014

I didn't take many pictures on Christmas morning because I wanted to be in the action, rather than behind the camera. But, here are a few.

Christmas morning excitement. Unfortunately my phone had a mechanical issue during the better movie opportunity.

Elliott helping Lucy with her present from Santa. Can you guess what it is?

Her own snow shovel!

Elliott opening his present from Santa.

A big excavator! I love the excitement on his face!

He got right into it.

New mittens.

Stacking up her blocks from Garrett, Brittany, and Hayden.

So proud of herself!

Trying to put on her new Santa Cruz T-shirt.

I can't figure out how to put it on so I'll just hold it on my head.

Getting her new backpack adjusted.

All ready for camping in 2015!

We had a really lovely morning with our family. We hosted a lively and wonderful Christmas dinner at our house with 11 adults and 8 kids. Crazy? Yes. Awesome? Absolutely. Thanks to all for celebrating with us!

Christmas Eve 2014

We celebrated Christmas Eve in Elma with a small group (Coco, Poppy, Uncle Esteban, Ted, Reid, Will, and our family). The Ortmans were with the Ortmans and Jen was working. Despite our missing people, we had a wonderful time!

Elliott started the fun by lighting the tree. Oh!

Very proud of himself! Look at that handsome jacket. It belonged to Ted when he was wee.

Tree lighting in action.

Merry Christmas from the Dorens!

 

My mini me.

The kids played before dinner.

Hug? Nope. Headlock.

Lucy is so proud of herself when she puts them together. She's very good at it already!

Reid was interested in my giant wine glass. (Will slept through dinner)

Lucy wanted to hold Reid.

Hi, baby!

Our kids got their first taste of an amazing Buffalo tradition - cinnamon ice cream from Quaker Bonnet. Heaven on a spoon. They loved it!

Taking a break to play with the butter churner. Why not?!

When we got home, we did necessary Christmas Eve activities, starting with putting out magic reindeer food. Those freaky spots are Dutch's eyes.

The magic reindeer food helps Santa's reindeer find their way to our house.

We baked and put out cookies for Santa. Elliott insisted on carrots for the reindeer.

He was telling us which carrot was for which reindeer. It was really cute.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care.

All ready!

Santa's work was done (and at a reasonable hour this year!). Off to bed!