We had a pretty great holiday season this year. Jay had an unexpected three weeks off in December, so although it wasn’t great for us financially, it was some much needed family time for the four of us. Having Daddy around gave us the ability to jump right into Christmas preparations and fun times in the city. We also were able to light the menorah each night with him, and visit the Grand Army Plaza menorah lighting one night for their festivities (hot latkes, toys for the kids and crazy keyboard klezmer music!). I love attending at least one night. It always ends up being absolutely frigid outside when we go. It was beautiful, though, too.
Theo lighting the candles for us, and Ruby watching intently. He can say the prayer now, for the most part! It’s adorable.
Christmas Eve found us following our usual traditions of baking cookies for Santa, setting them out with carrots for the reindeer and watching a Christmas special or two. This year Theo was able to write the letter to Santa with our spelling help. He chose to write, “Dear Santa, I love you. Love, Theo.”
He was so very excited for Santa this year. “When’s he gonna be here?” and the common, “I’m going to stay up all night and wait for him!” I have to admit it’s pretty fun and exciting for me since I never celebrated Christmas growing up. It’s cool getting to experience it through their eyes.
Christmas morning consisted of lots of gift opening and playing with new toys. And trying on new snow suits and socks. I made waffles and we stayed cozy.
It was Ruby’s first, but she was none the wiser. She enjoyed the sparkly tree, playing with ornaments and trying to eat wrapping paper. Christmas was actually a pretty mild day (I think it was in the 50’s!), so later in the afternoon we walked to the park and Theo had some playtime at the playground and we visited the lake. We made our way back at sunset, hopped in the car and feasted on Thai food in Park Slope. It was really mellow, and really nice. The kids were super well behaved at dinner and how nice that we didn’t have to cook or clean!