Before and After

Truth be told, I was impressed that Gammy and Papa held back on the gift-giving this Christmas! We were hoping to honor the "3 Gift Rule" meaning that if Jesus received three gifts from the wise men, then our precious baby doesn't need any more than that. This can be tricky, when he's just so cute (and there's a sale at Kohl's, right Mom?). So, a couple of gifts surfaced before and after the big day.

Augie's mastering his horse-whispering . . . except for the whispering part.

"Our house just needed one!" --Grammy

La Nochebuena

The Spanish translation for "Christmas Eve" is "La Nochebuena" or "The Good Night". And that it was. It's such a treat to spend time with Grammy and Papa, even as our traditions have shifted to earlier church services and earlier bedtimes. It was wonderful to sing the old hymns, light the candles and still come out with new reflections (even with the multitude of young families in the service!). What a magical time!

La familia buena.

Drummer Boys!

Looks like Tommy is totally ready for fatherhood! He quickly distracted Augie from the many expensive bottles in the room with the newest form of Rock Band for the Choi residence . . . bowl and spoon style.

Banging it out!

Great Grandma's Hands

During our brief stay in Chicago, we went to celebrate Grandma Strom's birthday with her. She looked beautiful and enjoyed spending time with her (so far!) only great grandchild. We all shared a laugh when Augie took Grandma's walker for a spin!

Augie had a great time (he just doesn't like to sit still)!

Two of the softest hands I've ever held.

Dancing!

Buenos Dias Papa Noel!

Santa found us in Wyoming the morning before our flight to Chicago. Simplicity reigned and Augustus enjoyed the crackily paper as much as the other gifts (and honestly, the lack of snow this winter makes the sled seem a little silly!). After looking locally and on .etsy (always dangerous), I decided the best stocking option for lil' Augustus was to make one myself!

The orange was the immediate favorite gift!

Tiny tots, with their eyes all aglow . . .

Santa on the Square

We did what all new parents (should) do, and drug our baby downtown on a chilly school night to go meet up with THE MAN. Santa was kind and calm, and really, it was only Augie who busted out his "Ho, ho, ho!"

Who is this guy?

Classic.

Also classic.

Naughty or nice? NICE!!!

Ditto

Whew! Seeking routine in the new year has made blog updates a little challenging. Thanks to my little sister for capturing our holiday fun in HER blog! Check it out: http://baby-choi.tumblr.com/