Christmas 2007

Well, the holidays are over...not counting New Year's since I never even make it close to midnight anymore!! Allie and Ryan helped make sugar cookies for Santa. We put them out with milk and reindeer food on Christmas Eve. As I put Ryan to bed, he asked 'Is Santa coming to my room?'. I assured him that Santa was only going to be dropping off presents and eating his snacks. That seemed to make him feel better!

It was so fun to watch them walk downstairs holding hands...and to see the look on their faces when they saw all the presents. As my good friend Tara said 'Christmas is so much more fun with kids!!!'.

Allie and Ryan had a lot of fun opening presents...what a mess! The Buzz and Woody costumes (Toy Story) were a huge hit!!

'Official' Santa Photo

We visited Santa at Perimeter Mall before our trip to Aruba. Two children, no tears. I would call this a success!

Aruba - December 2007

We had a great trip to Aruba! We spent the week at the Marriott Ocean Club. Allie and Ryan LOVED playing on the beach and in the pool. The weather was warm and breezy...although we did have some passing showers (it is Aruba's rainy season). That didn't stop us from having fun! We visited our favorite restaurant, El Gaucho...ok, we went TWICE for some yummy steak. About 75% of the guests at our hotel were from the northeast and of those 75%, at least half were from the Boston area. Everyone was wearing Red Sox and Patriots gear! The Happy Hour singer even dedicated 'SWEET CAROLINE' to 'all the sox fans'. NICE!

We visted the Aruba Ostrich Farm (random, yes). Ryan burst into tears when the ostriches poked their heads through the fence at him. Allie was a little more brave! But, take note...do not tell the Customs folks that you went to the Ostrich farm. We thought we were going to be detained by the Department of Agriculture. Luckily, they only wanted to disinfect our shoes before we flew home!

We came home a day early since Allie was not feeling well. It was a good decision after we learned how sick she is from the pediatrician! No worries...she's already on the mend and ready for Christmas!

More holiday fun

How much holiday fun can 2 children handle? A LOT!


We went to The Avenue at East Cobb a few weeks ago to see Santa and we took a carriage ride (around the very scenic parking lot...ha ha). Allie overcame her fear of Santa for the picture. She got up and yelled 'I'm not afraid of Santa anymore!'.

Hay...it's Allie!

Tonight we were at East Cobb Park for the Annual Outdoor Menorah lighting. Yes, it is warm enough here to be out after dark with no coats (and no tights for Allie). It has been in the mid-70s since the weekend. Yes, I am bragging. Hate me all you want!

They were looking up at the stars.

How great is a holiday that encourages the eating of jelly donuts??

Happy Chanukah!

Allie and Ryan are enjoying a fun week of Chanukah! Nana and Papa sent so many nice presents from Boston! On Saturday night, we celebrated at Uncle Jared and Aunt Stephanie's house. Stephanie made a wonderful dinner (the matzoh balls were just right!!!) and we opened MORE presents!!!

Aiden lights the candles

For Nana and Papa...all 4, no tears!!

The beautiful table

Jared pours some 'wine' for Lauren

Ryan doing shots
I've never seen a child happier than when Lauren saw that Hannah Montana doll!
And more presents
Mom by day, Rock star by night

HAPPY CHANUKAH EVERYONE!!!

Photo Shoot

Our friend Jodi (or Lola's mommy to Allie and Ryan) met us at the Chattahoochee Nature Center a few weeks ago for a photo shoot. As you can see, Ryan was a little more cooperative than Allie...and getting a picture of both of them was a bit of a challenge! Jodi was SO patient and the pictures are beautiful.




www.jodicrainephotography.com

Thanks Jodi!

Happy 5th Birthday Aiden

His 'official' birthday is Monday but we attended his Pirate-themed party today!

http://picasaweb.google.com/carri.gaudion/AidenS5thBirthdayParty