Merry Christmas

This was the girls' first Christmas with my extended family. When Savannah was born, Robert and I decided to cut back on all the driving between one party to another on Christmas day. Even more so after Gaby was born. It was difficult at times being on the road, and having to deal with cries for "babas" or a need for a new diaper. We thought it would be best for the girls, and ourselves, to have a more relaxing holiday.

Things were a little different this year. Uncle Ben and Auntie Minerva were in town for part of December through mid January, and wanted to spend Christmas day with Auntie Luz and her family. Harry, Minerva, and the boys were coming too, so we joined in order to spend time with our dear cousins, whom we've actually seen more of since September.

It was a beautiful, sunny day in West Covina. Kuya Noel has done so many remodeling projects in his house. It was fun to take a tour inside and see all the changes he made over the past couple of years. It was also great to see my own neices and nephews, all grown up now, celebrating the day with the family, along with their significant others.

Not too long after arriving, getting a bite to eat, and mingling with family, we packed ourselves back into the van to spend the rest of Christmas day with our Medina side of the family.

"Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother's house we go..."

Okay...maybe one or two rivers, and a tangle of freeways. We made it in time for dinner. Mom and Daniel were busy in the kitchen doing the finishing touches to our delicious meal. Meanwhile, we kept ourselves busy eating chocolate-covered cookies and various dips. I don't remember if Savannah was able to sit long enough to enjoy dinner like we all did. She was too excited having "Issa" there to play with.


After dinner, we gathered around the tree and "Santa" Gramma passed out the presents. The girls all had a blast opening their gifts! Savannah and Gaby are set for the winter season with so many outfits from Gramma and Grampa, Lolo and Lola, and Uncle Carlo, Auntie Kelly, and Aunt Judy. Savannah also got a new favorite Veggie Tales CD, with guest artist Matt Redman! Gaby got a teether from Gramma and Grampa that she doesn't let go of. Their BIG presents were a Radio Flyer trike for Savannah, and a Winnie the Pooh 3-stages ride (which Savannah also loves playing with).

Their BIG presents from us were a kitchen for Savannah (foods provided by Lolo and Lola) and the Ball Popper (Uncle Carlo had fun playing with it too) from me and Robert.

Merry Christmas to all, and all a GOOD NIGHT!