Northern Christmas

On Christmas Eve morning, we packed our van (which took just under a million hours) and we were off to celebrate Christmas with our family up north. As soon as we arrived at Grandma Ross's house, Edwin demanded to put on his Batman costume...and of course, I couldn't say no. So, when everyone got back from Mass, they got a very special Batman welcome...I think everyone loved the special guest!

Since we got rid of Edwin's high-chair after our dryer ate it...this was Lyla's first time in one and she did great! She sat there during our entire dinner - which was AWESOME! Mary Lou once again outdid herself, especially given that she has limited use of her right arm from a recent injury...don't know how she did it...but besides the missing thumbprint cookies - it was IMPECCABLE!!!

We started opening our gifts and Edwin was thrilled that Uncle Matt (and Melinda, Madeline, and Meredith) got him what he asked for - a Steelers helmet. Of course, they went over-the-top and found an entire uniform (shoulder pads and all) and Edwin had to put it on immediately. Can you tell he has a wonderful imagination? He loves to put different costumes on and our boy-up-clothes are really starting to stack up!

Although I might get in trouble for posting this one (sorry Mom#2)...I had to...It is beautiful! All 4 kids smiling and in their pjs...I LOVE IT!!! It is definitely going to be a framer at our house! Grandma Ross is so good at spoiling the kids! We are so blessed!

These are the kids' Christmas in Space pajamas...


Christmas morning: Edwin was glad that Santa was able to find him in Canfield to deliver his gifts...a stocking filled to the max and a Doctor Kit. Lyla got a stocking and a ball popper.

Edwin got Lyla a baby toolbench and was so excited to give it to her. He picked this out all by himself from one of the many toy ads that our house was swamped with during the season...and wrapped it (read put tissue paper in the bag) for her. And, of course he unwrapped it for her too!

I think Edwin was surprised by Lyla's gift to him - the Joker's Playhouse...he asked if I helped her and I told him a little...he must have told her thank you a million times.


After naptime, it was off to Pittburgh. Lyla was in awe of Dottie during her phone conversation. I think she's going to be nosey, just like her mama...LOL. It was wonderful to see all of the Muellers at Muellerville this year. Although it was a relatively small crowd, we had an amazing time catching up with family and letting the kids enjoy the familytime. The kids were once again spoiled with gifts, but I think Edwin's favorite gift was a stuffed animal Clifford from Sarah. It hasn't left his side since she gave it to him. He LOVES it!

A very special thanks to Great Grandma Mueller for once again hosting a beautiful Christmas Celebration. FYI: According to Edwin, Grandma Mueller and the Steelers are the only people who live in Pittsburgh...