Happy Hot Christmas

uncle david & anna on her first christmas

silly uncle cal

uncle brad playing in the sandbox

judith, jacs, michael

noah getting hugs from uncle brad

aunty dianne & annagrace

trouble! noah, benn, uncle martin

anna loves her uncle brad

dozens & dozens of gingerbread men

the gift-opening frenzy

checking out his stocking gifts on christmas eve

eating sand and pouting; a good way to pass the afternoon

Noah loving the swings...

Anna (surprisingly) loved eating some of the food offered at a yum cha we went to the other day.  Then, she couldn't stop giggling when I tried to wipe her face clean, it was very cute.  And for those who may be mildly interested in trivial baby things (ie grandparents:) you can actually see all 4 of her top teeth in that photo too. 

Bethlehem

Each year, churches in a certain area of the city get together to put on a "Bethlehem" day for the children .  It takes place outside, in the grounds of one of the big churches, and there are people acting out various events in the Christmas story (kiddie style of course) and a live nativity where the kids can hold and pet little animals. Noah loved holding the rabbits!  They also had a manger scene set up where you had to dress up and take photos.  Yes, we looked ridiculous...the things you do to make your children happy!  Noah was a bit apprehensive of the costume initially, but he soon warmed to it and loved being a "king".  And Anna was a fairly cooperative baby Jesus. 

Miscellaneous A.G.

Steam Engine

There is an old steam engine train in the mountains which still operates scenic rides.  We went recently and met some friends there. Noah had a great time riding in the old fashioned train carriages and playing with his friend Annabelle along the way. 

Noah giving Annabelle a hug (more like a tackle:)

We made our visit to Santa. Noah is terrified of him this year, hence why I had to be in the photo holding Noah.  At the same department store, there's a "Santa Train" every year, and at least Noah really enjoyed that.  As usual, stores set up an area when kids can write and "mail" letters to Santa.  And, apparently Santa can now be contacted via email too.  There was a Santa computer for kids to email him, and I think even 3 year olds were doing it. My how times have changed since I was a kid.