Christmas 2008

Merry Christmas! We decided we should update the blog with Owen's Christmas Activities. Being his second Christmas, he acted all pro - unwrapping gifts and helping decorate. Although Owen was excited to do everything and could say Ho Ho Ho when he saw Santa, he didn't quite understand the purpose for all the commotion. There were five holiday parties with one 3-day strech of constant unwrapping. We were getting worried that Owen would start to expect a wrapped gift every where he goes.

Christmas Eve this year was very different from last year. Owen partook in a lot of new family Chirstmas traditions.

"Shut the door Daddy - It is getting cold in here!"

First-off was hanging Santa's Key. Mommy was distraught that our house did not have a fireplace for Santa to come down. When Mommy consulted her students - they reminded her that they never really cared how Santa got in their house just as long as the presents showed up. Others said that Owen won't pay attention to that many details. Well Mommy and Daddy comprimised - instead of a $3000 fireplace, Daddy bought a $10 Santa Key (during our vacation in Spring Green). Some may call that the cheap way out, others might call it fiscally responsible.

Owen left Santa milk and cookies as well as carrots for the reindeer. At Daycare Owen made special reindeer food (oatmeal and glitter) and sprinkled it outside to make sure Santa stopped. Owen really wanted Daddy to eat the carrot. He must've known that Daddy did most of the physical lifting of the gifts.

Then it was off to bed to wait for Santa to come. Owen's face says - I don't know what happening tomorrow but it sounds good.

Since Owen was no longer a "Christmas Rookie" he felt is was neccessary to critique Daddy's tree decorating. Owen is looking forward to traveling to the tree farm outside of town next year to pick up tree. Daddy hasn't had any help for several years. The last helper Daddy had refused to get out of the Jeep on account of "a chill in the air".

Cousins' Mya, Billy and Owen pose for a pre-gift opening photo. For the next two hours paper was flying, kids went missing, balls were thrown, boxes were discarded, tape was cut and dreams came true and the trio attacked the mountain of gifts.

Uncle Bill and Owen - a rare shot. Owen didn't know Bill could read.

Being at home for two weeks is a long time. Owen had to take a few minutes to reminise about his old school pal, Brody.

Stress levels were rising as Owen tried to remember the physics lesson he received from Uncle Brandon ... now what was the speed equation again?

Owen really enjoys playing with his new 6-in 1 Tent and Tunnel Play Zone by Toyco. Of course it's all fun and games until Daddy gets stuck halfway through the tube.