Robyn's Nest: Christmas 2012

We had a wonderful Christmas as a family of four! A few highlights:

Fiona's joy: This is the first year that Fi really seemed into Santa Claus and all of the excitement of counting down to Christmas. She woke every morning in December ready to see what came next on our advent calendar. She also wrote her first letter to Santa and was very clear and consistent about what she wanted most: a rolling backpack and Abby Cadabby slippers. Santa was a good a listener and Fiona was very happy on Christmas morning.
Breakfast with Santa: For the 3rd year in a row, we enjoyed Breakfast with Santa at the Carolina Inn. This year, all four grandparents and Aunt Holly joined in the fun. Fi was a big scared to talk to the big guy, but did enjoy the ballon animals, face painting, and (especially) the roaming magician.
Cookies: We decorated sugar cookies, made our traditional spritz cookies, and tried a new, delicious recipe - Espresso Crinkles, so yummy: http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/espresso-crinkles-10000001860058/
Our Tree: With all of our Christmas decorations in storage, we bought a few simple things and made construction paper ornaments and a star tree topper. Fiona LOVED the new glitter pens I bought for this fun activity. As per usual, we named our tree after celebrity baby from the past year. This year, Reese Witherspoon's Tennessee won out.
Italian Feast: Christmas Eve afternoon we were treated to an Italian Feast - including homemade ravioli and delicious grilled salmon - courtesy of Aunt Pat and Uncle John (my brother-in-law's parents).
Family: We were grateful to have our family come to us this year - especially the newest member of our clan, my niece Nina Rose, born on December 21!