Once upon a time in early December, we were supposed to go back to Kansas for Christmas with my family…and then Elise got sick with a nasty cold. And then I got sick. And then Todd got sick.
So flights were cancelled and I cried myself to sleep. {No, not really. But I was super bummed out.}
Anyways, we were able to find a January weekend that all of us could get together for a belated Christmas—which I ended up preferring, since I still had it to look forward to after December 25th was over. {plus, it gave me extra time to get more gifts for our nephew!}
Since we were only back in Kansas City for 3 full days, Grandpa & Grandma came to my brother’s house and we had our celebration there, squeezing in lots of cuddle and play time with Elise & little B.
{Somebody developed a fascination for her cousin’s ears. Poor guy.}
{‘Christmas Eve’ story time with Grandpa.}
Then we all woke up bright & early (uh, 8 a.m.) to have our family Christmas. The babies got pretty spoiled with clothes and toys and more clothes and more toys. Repeat repeat.
{happy cousins!}
And then we decided we needed a cute picture of the kids wearing Santa hats.
And……cue the tears.
E: “B! Help me!”
B: “I don’t know what your problem is, I’m completely fine. I like this hat.”
We also played lots and lots of Bananagrams.
We squeezed in a visit with this tiny little guy and his family…
…and a dinner date with some of my bestest friends, who spoiled Miss Elise with hugs.
Ah, I miss them so much. Seriously, spending an hour together twice (maybe thrice, if I’m lucky) a year just isn’t enough, but at least it rejuvenates my heart enough to sustain me while we’re apart.
Also, traveling with a baby—which is stressful enough in itself—is much better when you are not doing it alone. I’m so glad Todd was along to be the one to change her poopy diapers in the airplane lavatory. Thanks, honey.
the end.