Polar Express: We traveled up north to Williams, Arizona for the Polar Express. They have wonderful train ride to the "North Pole". On the way there, the family enjoys hot cocoa and cookies while the book the Polar Express is read over the loudspeaker. When we arrive at the North Pole which is an area in the middle of nowhere that is beautifully decorated with lights and villages facades, Santa enters the train and passes out bells to the children as we head back singing Christmas Carols. It is a big event as you have to book a year in advance as it is so popular. The kids loved it and Selina did great. I was afraid it could be overwhelming or that she would be afraid of Santa but she got right into it and gladly accepted her bell from him. We went with friends and stayed overnight at the hotel right there which made it all the more special and exciting!
Santa's Lap: I was encouraged thinking that now that Selina had met Santa that she would go visit him for the ever popular pic on his lap. That was not to be as she did not want to go closer that about three feet from him. We tried for a minute but she could not be talked into it. The elves asked if we should just put her on his lap and let her scream to get the picture but I said no. I think they were bummed that this meant no picture package sale for me and Santa wasn't as friendly when he learned we wouldn't be taking a picture. I thought he should be relieved that I didn't allow my child to sit on my lap and attack him as he probably could not tell that she is stronger than him! She was willing to give him a high five so I actually considered that a success as WE all left happy with no unnecessary trauma to Selina or me!
Christmas Caroling: Our neighbors started a tradition where we all go caroling. They start at one house and people join along the way. The kids have such a great time and the neighbors, especially those without children, really enjoy it!
Christmas: We all attended church on Christmas Eve. I have to share a few pictures of the outfit I got for Selina's first Christmas as I loved it so much!
Ugg, I tried to get a great picture of the family and one of just the kids but the universe was not in the right allignment and I couldn't get it accomplished. (Thankfully I have some professional pictures that I mentioned here to fall back on!)
That evening we had our family over for dinner. On Christmas morning our families came back for breakfast and to watch the kids open presents. Both my parents and TR's parents don't have any other grandchildren here (TR's sister and her family are on the east coast) so the kids receive lots of attention from their grandparents. Selina did not understand opening presents at first but like all children, she caught on quickly. It was especially fun to see the kids give each other gifts. They were excited to shop for each other and enjoyed exchanging gifts even through Cater told Kman what she got him right when she returned home from buying it!
It was another wonderful Christmas that was even more special as we had another daughter to share it with. I hope that your Christmas and New Years were also Merry. For those of my friends that were not able to spend the holidays with their newly adopted children, I had you in my thoughts and can't wait for your families to be united...
2 comments:
Wow Jennine, great photos! Selina looks like an angel in her Christmas outfit and I think touching Santa's hand is success the first year! He is a pretty intimidating looking dude really. Happy New Year to you and yours. :)
Fabu
I loved your photos and Selina's hair looks so cute how it is growing out! I am so glad that you had such a great holiday and I look forward to hearing about more in the future. (thanks for the good thoughts our way too!)
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