2007 Gallipolis Christmas Story

We had a good time in Ohio for Christmas this year. We spent our first two days with my family and last two days with Chris’.

Everyone sure made the best of our limited time. Our Christmas celebrations began the moment we stepped off the plane. Thank you. I really appreciate you all taking the time to come and see us in Columbus.

All the little ones. Kaylie, Lillie, Wilson-the-cheese, Clara, Zach and Micheal.

Lissa (my best friend from college) and her beautiful daughter Clara Sue

You kept your children up past their bed times and extended your dinners, just for us. You inconvenienced yourselves so that we didn’t have to inconvenience ourselves. You know how crazy it is when we come home and managed to help us feel less overwhelmed. You are the best.
At my mom’s we had our Christmas early. Friends and family came to us and we filled our plates full of delicious goodies (steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls, and cake). Wilson had his first taste of my mom’s mashed potatoes and green beans and (after a few tastes) they were a hit. Too bad he didn’t like them; cause that would leave more for me. My mom’s potatoes are THE BEST! I have tried and tried to duplicate them but just can’t master the art. My Uncle Barb says the extra ingredient is love. I’m sure she’s right.

Josh was determined that Wilson would walk by the end of the night... Wilson didn't agree.

We followed the feast by sitting down together and sharing stories until we couldn’t keep our eyes open any longer. It was wonderful. The living room was full… It was a great time. Thank you all for coming. I look forward to our time together every year.

The next day Wilson and our nephew Adams (Chris’ side) were baptized together.

It was a blessed day. I felt such joy to look around and see all the family and friends in the pews. It reminded us what Christmas is about and that is something I will always cherish. Following the service Aunt Cindy and Uncle Brett (Chris’ side) held a brunch for all of us. The food was wonderful. It was so nice to get everyone together in their Sunday’s best. We even managed to take some great family pictures that I can’t wait to hang in a frame.

Whatcha eating?
Wilson with his beautiful grandmother's...and mother.My mom, brother, Wilson, Chris and I.

After brunch we headed back to my mom’s and Wilson made a trip out to the barn to see all the horses and the puppies. He kicked his feet with delight until… Three Socks (one of the horses)sniffed him. Then he started to cry. After the barn trip Wilson was zapped. He fell asleep on Chris’ lap and didn’t budge for two hours.

See? He was SO out.

We opened our presents with my mom, brother and his girlfriend Jo Beth. Thank you all for everything. One of Wilson’s favorite gifts was his new rocket.

Mmm. It tastes good too. One of my favorite gifts is Wilson's ball popper toy.

Doesn't it look fun?

After opening presents we headed to my step-grandparents house for a quick visit. We were able to see some of my cousins and aunts. It was nice to see them. Thanks for taking the time to see us, and working around Wilson’s nap schedule. Hopefully next time we can see more of you and take a little longer visiting…

Christmas Eve after some more visiting and breakfast we headed into my mother-in-laws store, The Purple Turtle. Wilson loved crawling around all the toys and even tried to walk with one of the push-toys. We helped Babe run some errands the headed to Chris’ parents home. Later that night we headed to the Mullin’s Annual Christmas Eve party. It was great to see everyone and I know that Wilson enjoyed being the center of attention…

Christmas morning we woke up to find that Santa had come to Babe and Pops’ house.

So serious...

He brought lots of goodies to the kids, and the grown-ups. Thank you Santa... The best part was watching Alana this Christmas. This year she really seemed to know what it was about. When she saw her gifts she said, “He did come, he did come.” It was precious. Alana got a laptop which she played with ALL day long. It was such a hit! So much of a hit that she didn’t even finish opening her presents until the next morning.

That night we had dinner with more family and ate like kings and queens. Between my mom’s and Chris’ parents house I still feel full…

The day after Christmas we headed back to Washington and that my friends, is the end to our 2007 Gallipolis Christmas story.

It was wonderful seeing everyone. We loved every second and hope to see you again soon... Here is to another fantastic year.

Let’s make it great… in 2008!!