Sunday, December 28, 2008

Chandler's First Christmas (in the U.S.A.)


Christmas 2008 was so much fun and more special than I ever could have imagined. The years of waiting for my little pumpkin were so worth the wait. We had so much fun going to Christmas parties and visiting friends all month. And the week before Christmas, Nana flew in and spent several days just playing from morning 'til night with this little munchkin. On Christmas Eve we drove to Raleigh to Auntie Von's and family for a special first Christmas celebration. Thankfully we made it there just as Santa was nearing the U.S. (per the Norad online tracker). While not easy, especially for Cousin Natalie, we all made it to bed before he arrived. On Christmas Day we enjoyed watching the kids open gifts. Chandler was a little overwhelmed at first but then warmed up to the idea of ripping paper and emptying boxes. She would be content with a pile of tissue paper. :) Auntie Von and Uncle Chris prepared yummy meals for us too. I had to work Friday so we headed back to Charlotte late Christmas Evening. A great time indeed!



One day we came home to find this fabulous pink 4-wheeler on the porch courtesy of Auntie Kelly Jo and family from Cleveland, Ohio. We finally put it together today. Can you tell Chan loves it? Watch out Grampie, next she'll be jet skiing with you and Ethan!

Chandler imagining herself riding this vehicle through the neighborhood! Very Cool!!!

In Raleigh on Christmas Day....Cousin Natalie showing Chandler the proper way to wear a headband. I just love Chan's expression as she watches her so intently.



Another keyboard lesson after breakfast.



Nana helping Chandler as she pretends to drink out of her very own personalized mug.


The girls admiring Natalie's new American Girl doll, Julie.



Cousin Natalie sharing a bangle bracelet with Chandler.



Shucks, just a little too big. Chandler was really hoping Natalie's new sparkly shoes would fit.


Natalie and Ethan all hugs in the Christmas Spirit.



Chandler is especially fond of Cousin Ethan too. Don't worry, Ethan....Shouldn't be long and she can play X-Box too.



Nana and her girls.

Chandler modeling her new coat and headband from my childhood friend Michelle and family.
It's hard to believe our first Christmas has come and gone but certainly a memory I will always treasure. It was a wonderful month with friends and family. We wish you all a very Happy New Year in 2009!!!

3 comments:

Nida Weatherington said...

Nicole,

We were so excited to receive Christmas card from you and Chandler. She is growing so fast and is so precious. Erykah thinks she is so cute and can't wait to come and give her a big hug.

We are happy to see that Chandler enjoyed her first Christmas. I know you and the family are spoiling her to death and rightfully so.

Me and my family can't wait to make the trip to NC to see you guys. We love and miss you so much.

Wishing you and Chandler and very Happy New Year.

Nida, Steven, Erykah, and Austin.

RamblingMother said...

precious precious!

Alyson said...

So precious....

Lilypie 2nd Birthday Ticker