This year was to be a Shalley Christmas. We packed up {what felt like} our whole lives and hit the road for VV. I was excited and knew it would be fun to all be under the same roof. It's been a long time since all six sisters and brothers in law were together. We have such a good time and usually laugh our faces off when we get to see one another. It was also special that Great Grandmother would be spending a few days with us and have some time with Parker too. The first night, it was just the three of us and Papa. We put Parker down and watched some football before going to bed. The next day, the house was filled with people! Parker absolutely loved being the center of attention. He knows exactly how to get all eyes on him. It's hilarious. Poor man was teething like nobody's business and SIX teeth were working their way through all week. There was some fussing but overall he did really great and I'm so proud of him. Park napped well and um, ended up sleeping with us almost every night. The night time sleep wasn't so good for any of us but we survived it. Christmas Eve service was wonderful. Parker sat in my lap and snacked on cheerios for over an hour. Only once did he pipe up during a song...maybe he felt like he should contribute! I was shocked and oh so grateful that we made it through the entire thing without having to make an emergency exit. I didn't grow up attending a Christmas Eve service each year, but I think we'll try and make this tradition stick. It's magical to be in God's house celebrating the birth of Jesus at Christmas time.
Our man was soooo adorable!
Christmas morning was such fun. I've never loved Christmas. I love what it's about, but it usually stresses me out. I worry over gifts and can't stand fighting the crowds to shop. This year was an entirely different experience. I personalized most of our gifts and couldn't wait to see everyone open them. I know they were a hit! Who couldn't love something featuring Parker man's sweet face?
Park's Grandmother gave him a recordable story book featuring
The Night Before Christmas. I'm putting it away until next Christmas. I know he'll love hearing this each year.
Silly family!
Precious boy! He lit up the morning!
Boxes and paper were a hit. What baby doesn't love them their first Christmas.
The remainder of our time in VV was spent eating yummy food, playing games, watching movies, laughing with Parker and soaking up sweet family time. Next Shalley Christmas we'll have at least two boys running around. It'll be even sweeter!
Parker and Papa
Parker and Great Grandmother
The Center of attention, of course. And our traditional family photo. Look at us in
2007 and in
2009 {clearly I need to lose weight again! ah!}.
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