Christmas in Illinois

We spent Christmas in Illinois with the Sylvesters and had a terrific time! The roads were icy as we drove to get there, which made us think we might be in store for a white Christmas. But once we got there, all it did was rain and rain and rain. This was the first Christmas Noah was really aware of all the excitement and was able to fully participate. From opening the advent calendar each day throughout the month of December all the way through opening presents on Christmas morning, he was so thrilled about it all! (And only slightly disappointed to find out that there wasn't a chocolate advent calendar for the month of January!) Here is just a glimpse of our trip...

Noah was mesmerized by Nana's elaborate decorative candleholder that spins once the candles are lit. It has the nativity scene in it and Noah loved watching the camel and sheep turn while it spun around.

This ball was one of the favorite gifts (thanks Aunt Sarah!). Besides rolling it around, he likes to sit on it and roll himself around. He thinks it's hilarious when he falls off and exclaims "Funny Noah!"

The train proved to be a favorite toy for the whole family. Noah loves to build "up high bridges" and tear everything apart once he's bored, but David is also hooked on trying to build the most elaborate track configurations. I'm not sure who enjoys it more!

Like father, like son. Apparently David used to play with this very same colander and wear it as a hat, just like Noah decided to do while playing with it at Nana's house.