MERRY CHRISTMAS!

This was a our first Christmas on our own. With baby #2 due so soon we stayed here in Baton Rouge and while definitely missed being with our families, I think we can say we still had a great Christmas.

We cut out and painted salt dough ornaments to put on our tree. Can you spot the the 2 elmos, the octopus and the pregnant lady (Jeff's handiwork!)?

On Christmas Eve we went to the bonfires on the levee. From what I gathered nobody really knows origin of this tradition. Some people say it's to light the way for St. Nicholas but I think it's just a good excuse to play with fire! Every 100 ft or so was a bonfire and some of them were setting off fireworks too.

Emily by our little tree on Christmas eve.

The baby Jesus ornament was Emily's favorite.

Christmas morning...

Emily ran right to the tricycle from Nana and Papa

 ...then she opened the dress up box from Santa. 

She never waivered in her request for "projects and dress-ups" this year.

We went to church and then came home to open presents.

The bow on the belly was Jeff's idea. Almost 38 weeks and counting!

Jeff's parents gave Emily this doctor kit and she loves it! 

Jeff got a mandolin from his parents. 

He already sounds pretty good since the fingering/strings are the same as the fiddle. 

I was so impressed with Jeff- he picked out some perfume for me on his very own.

We ate our Christmas feast while Emily napped.