The Fitzgeralds: Christmas 2008

Christmas had a whole new meaning this year now that Kellen is in our lives. We had so much fun celebrating with our families. Despite the bad weather, we headed to Canby and spent Christmas Eve at Nana and Papa Harreesie's house with my brother, sister, niece and nephew. It is a tradition that we've had for years to celebrate with a big dinner and then to open up our presents that we've given to each other.

Christmas day was spent with just the three of us. Kellen woke up and we went straight to the Christmas tree where Santa left several new and exciting toys for Kellen. It was entertaining to watch Kellen discover all of his new toys. He was especially interested in the Live Elmo. After presents were opened we had a big breakfast and then ventured off for a walk in the snow.

Saturday we celebrated Christmas with the Fitzgeralds. Another tradition that the Fitzgeralds have done for years (although it is traditionally done on Christmas day, we postponed it to Saturday due to the snow). We first spent the morning opening gifts and having breakfast at Grandma and Grandpa Fitzgerald's house with Colin's brothers and sister-in-law and then headed to Aunt Cece's house for the big Fitzgerald gathering. All of Colin's aunts, uncles, and cousins were there to enjoy a big dinner and some gift exchanging. Colin and his Uncle Tom have a bit of a football rival and tend to graciously give a gift to the loser of the Civil War game. Well, we all know how badly the Ducks beat the Beavers this year, so Colin had to take advantage and come up with a memorable gift.....a beautifully gifted box of dead roses with the newspaper clipping announcing "Roses are Red, OSU Blue". The moment was priceless! With all the people and stimulation, Kellen was quite the trooper! He amazes me every time on how well he does at social gatherings....so much like his daddy!

On Sunday my dad, step-mom, half brother and sister came over to our house to check out the lights and exchange gifts. My brother, sister, niece and nephew also joined us. It was the first time Kellen was able to meet his uncle Mike (who has been in the Dominican Republic for the last 18 months). Even though this week was quite the busy one, I couldn't have asked for a more perfect way to celebrate Kellen's first Christmas!

Celebrating at Nana's House Christmas Eve