Yet again, I am behind on my posts....but we had an attack of the vicious snot. First me, then Will, and Emma with Daddy being the only one spared (hmmm.....makes me wonder does the man have an immune system of steel or what???) Needless to say, we have had some very long nights around the Pitstop. Sniffle, cough....you get the picture. Last night as Scott and I were running man on man defense, I began to wonder how in the world could anyone mange with more than two. The game plan then turns to a zone defense, and well, I just don't see that ending well. Nights like that remind me why we decided to stop at two....
Snot aside, we had a wonderful holiday filled with so many memories that I haven't gotten to share. Todd, Shinin, and Gideon joined us at the beginning of December. It was really wonderful to have them here and to finally get to meet Gideon. He is really awesome, and the kids had a great time together. Those moments are truly so special. The three of them will never be that small again, and it was so nice to see them together. It was a wonderful reminder of what the season is all about...not presents, decorations, or the finest feast, but rather the special moments that make a lifetime of memories. Of course, Sara had to visit to help capture those moments and as always, she did an amazing job.
Along with Todd and Shinin, Uncle Bill, Aunt Susan, Katy, and Emmie with Grandpa and Grandma in tow made the trip down to spend Christmas with us. It was great to finally meet Bill, Susan, Katy, and Emmie, and for them to meet the little stars of the Pitstop. We ate, opened presents, and changed a lot of diapers, but I have to say that I have never seen Mimi and Poppas' house filled with more love and happiness.
Santa's visit was also much expected; so, the Pitstop was lively on Christmas Eve. I was so suprised at how much Will understood this year. All the way home from Mimi's house, he pointed to the sky and said "Santa in the sky!" We tucked Will and Emma in and thanks to some helpful elves, Santa made his delivery. A kitchen, dollies and more dollies, "aninimaallss", and last but not least "ipke!". He really likes him, but doesn't completely understand that he is not alive. Since he is remote controlled, Scott and I control him for Will so that the two of them can play. When Will wants to play with him, he goes up to Spike and yells "ike!!! wake up!! wake up!!". It is really cute, and I think eventually he will learn to control Spike himself, and then the toy becomes completely new again....and that is what moms like...the gift that keeps on giving!!!!
Emma waited until she had a very attentive audience at Mammaw and Pappaw's house on Christmas night to give us our present. We had just shared a wonderful meal and opened presents with everyone. The kids were playing in the living room and we were all just sitting around talking. She stood up in the middle of the floor and waited until she knew everyone was looking. "Momma, look at Emma," I said as Aunt Terra ran for the camera. And she did it...she took three full steps and of course, we all cheered as though she had found the answer to world peace. Now, a week and a half later, she is walking all over the place. She still gets a little frustrated and crawls some, mainly to keep up with Will, but is starting to walk more than she is crawling.
I have to say that it was a whirlwind, but truly magical. I know that I was given the most incredible gift in these two children, and the magic of Christmas reminded me of this blessing. I am truly grateful to my amazing husband for not only loving me, but for giving me these amazing gifts and then working so hard so that I can enjoy them each and everyday. This season reminded me of how amazing my life truly is and makes me excited for what is ahead. 2009 here we come!!!!
