Christmas 2011

This year Jack was a little more aware of the holidays than last.  Considering he was still just a 9-month-old baby last year and not quite yet mobile he was definitely able to participate in things more this year as a 21-month-old toddler!

We had a whirlwind two weeks involving 4 Christmas celebrations and 2 more holiday gatherings. 

Although Jack did seem to be more aware of the holidays than he was last year he still didn't quite understand the concept of presents.  He did like getting new things to play with, but he was quite happy with the first thing he laid eyes on and didn't really partake in unwrapping anything. It was a lot of fun shopping for him this year though since he has developed his own interests.

Christmas at Grandma A.J.'s house the week before Christmas

Christmas with Mark's dad and step-mom the next day

Hanukkah at my parents' house

Where Let's Rock Elmo made his appearance.  As you can see, Jack was really excited!

It's like the REAL Elmo was there!

Presents under our tree on Christmas Eve! 

Christmas Morning at our house:

Checking out his new firetruck that Santa brought

Still playing with the firetruck, totally uninterested in looking at anything else.

With some prompting he started to dig into his stocking.

Annual bow-on-the-head picture

Last year's:

I die at the cuteness.  Look at how little he was!

Hoarding vehicles in the beanbag chair

Playing Mega Blocks with DaDa

Sneaking treats from the table at Great Grandma's house on Christmas Evening

Enjoying his spoils

Open it DaDa!  He wanted EVERYTHING opened and taken out of the box right away!

We were busy and although we also had a lot of fun, I'm certainly looking forward to getting back to our daily routine.

We'll have a nice low-key, relaxing evening tonight as we're planning to stay in to ring in the new year by ourselves after all the excitement of the holidays!

2011 has been another great year for us and I can't wait to see what 2012 holds! Happy New Year, everyone!