Christmas Eve at the Emhof House

On December 23rd after we got out of work, Todd, Nathan and I headed up to Grand Rapids for a sleepover and Christmas celebration with Grandpa John and Grandma Gail. My dad cooked a tasty dinner--a pork recipe from one of their fancy cooking magazines and his famous cream puffs for dessert. Have I ever mentioned how happy I am that cooking is something that both my parents and Todd's parents excel at??? We definitely reap the benefits there.

Christmas Eve morning we had a leisurely breakfast and then opened presents after Nathan's morning nap. Unfortunately, Steve and Joanna couldn't make it for Christmas this year--flights were insanely expensive, they are on the brink of moving to a new place, and there was just too much going on. The house and Christmas celebration seemed a little too quiet without them, but we still had a good time. We did get to chat on the phone with them several times, which was fun. Of course, I made good use of the new camera!

Hey look, a picture of me! :)

Grandma and Nathan exploring his new barn.

Dad capturing a moment with his camera.

First self portrait with the new camera!

Mom opening her Fiestaware bowls from us--she's starting a collection and it was fun to help kick it off!

Dad opening his present.

Nathan playing with his Wegman's truck from Great-grandma Joan. We're starting this kid off right! :)

The awesome (and odd!) stuffed ham from Uncle Steve and Aunt Joanna. Check out the artist's website at: http://www.sweet-meats.com/index.html it is really cute!

Family photo

Playing with the drum from Uncle Steve and Aunt Joanna. This is one of his favorite toys from the Birthday/Christmas present marathon--sanctioned banging!

Awww... our first baby! :)

My sweet hubby

Nathan loves to "clean." If you give him a rag, a paper towel (or in this case, stuffing) he will have a ball wiping down whatever surface is closest. Could it be that we will have a neat freak??

Nathan going for the user guide to make sure I'm using the camera to its full capacity.

An example of the reason I'm so excited about the new camera--adorable subject, and a fast shutter speed to capture a moment when he's looking at me and smiling!