Christmas 2014

Sophia was a huge fan of Christmas and Santa this year. I lost track of how many times we visited with the Man in Red. 

Taken at The Little Gym before class.

I must admit that Santa has been on my side when it comes to encouraging potty training. Although she still needs reminders, we are getting there.

Our traditions continue:

We wear matching pajamas to bed on Christmas Eve, wear Santa hats, and stay in pajamas most of the day.

Sophia was less than thrilled about taking a picture before opening presents.

Gifts - tequila for Dave, a teapot for me, and a pandora charm for Sophia.

Handprint ornament.

A movie (prior to Sophia we would go see a movie at the theater. This year we settled for a mini Homeland marathon since there was little we wanted to watch).

Festival of Lights.

We ate yogurt parfaits before opening presents and then snacked on a brunch-y feast throughout the rest of the day. We dined on duck confit for dinner.

1. Spinach, Mushroom, and Feta Quiche
2. Sausage Balls (Double the meat. This time I made them with lamb and sausage seasonings).
3. Potato Pancakes (Dave's creation)
4. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
5. Andes Brownies (Tollhouse Brownie Recipe topped with melted chocolate and Andes Mints.)

We made cookies for Santa. Just like last year Sophia decided that she needed to sample the cookies. She left one for the big guy.

New this year: Driving around to look at the neighborhood lights and a Christmas story countdown. We didn't have enough books to start at the beginning of December, but having a new holiday book to read each night seemed to help Sophia keep track of when Santa was coming.

Some more pictures from our day.

I can't wait until next year when we have another little love to share Christmas morning with.