van der Meer Christmas

We drove to Huntsville on the 26th of December for our van der Meer family Christmas. It was the first Christmas for both Alexa and Joey. I really enjoy that these two go through all the "firsts" together.

We arrived a day before the rest of the aunts/uncles/cousins and had a quiet evening with Grammie and Opa.

The next morning, we were treated to this gorgeous, if muted, sunrise.

The pretty Christmas feast table (Jack and Ollie are waiting for dinner and Alexa is eating ahead).

FEAST!

Grammie with the libations.

Mummy and Alexa, playing after dinner.

Alexa LOVED Grammie's decorations.

 Sammy, acting as babysitter.

Babies playing on the floor.

There was a big snowfall while we were there, creating a winter wonderland.

Alexa in her fancy Christmas outfit.

Joey is really digging into his meal!

Tree and presents!

Four kids in their new Christmas crowns.

Present time!

Alexa wasn't really sure what to make of the presents. She liked sitting on top of the wrapped presents, but didn't really get the concept of opening them.

Break time for Joey.

I love this picture of Geoff and Opa. They both look so laid back about the whole thing.

Presents.

First Christmas ornaments for Alexa and Joey.

My new jammies that Grammie made for me. She made matching PJ pants for Alexa. ADORABLE.

Like I said: sitting on the present boxes = FUN!

Uncle Geoff.

Charlie's new Chess set.

Sam's "big" gift. I love the excitement on his face.

It's a curling broom!

Jack and Ollie, showing off Pokepark.

Red kitchen tools! My favourite.

Sam's broom and his new curling hat.

 Our little family.

Chaos.

We came home on the 28th, so it was a bit of a short visit. But it was a lovely Christmas.

Between the VandenBerg and van der Meer celebrations, it was everything I wanted for our baby's very first Christmas.