December 31st

December has been such a joyfull month!

We had lots of great family time

and made lots of great memories.

My husband had never had a real Christmas tree so this year was the year! It was also Alyssa's first real live Christmas tree.

Alyssa got to meet Santa not once....

...but twice! The second time was more of a-

Being in the right place at the right time

Alyssa got to wrap a few gifts all by herself

We handmade ornaments for Alyssa to give to all the family members

We had a full day of cookie baking and made around 15 dozen cookies (or more!)

Alyssa was too cute in her apron and hat

Alyssa, being in pre-school now, got to attend her first class Christmas party!

Christmas Eve was filled with a family party, tracking Santa on the computer, and gifts from her Grandma, Great Grandma, and Great Aunt. She was so excited to put out the cookies for Santa and even though she was ready to go to bed so Santa would come she had a hard time getting to sleep.

Santa came Christmas Day!

Alyssa opening a gift from Santa Claus

During winter break we had a fun day at the Magic House in St. Louis with cousin Samantha

And finally we got enough snow to go outside and play, sled, and do her favorite thing - make snow angels.

2009 has been such a trying and yet rewarding year for our family.

We only hope that the New Year is filled with more family memories of good times.

Happy New Year from our family to yours!