Merry Merry!

A talking Dora doll... beyond exciting...

Mommy made Christmas dinner for the famiglia

Baby's First Christmas brought much more-- literally and figuratively-- than Mommy & Daddy expected. You hear from so many parents that until your child is two or even three years old, they really won't fully comprehend the essence of Christmas (ie. Santa and the overwhelming amount of goodies that come every December 25th), but Stella seemed to almost expect it bright and early this Christmas. Perhaps it was the constant chatter that Santa was coming, Mommy excitedly pointing toward the stuffed Santa figure in Stella's bathroom or more religiously, the Manger and Baby Jesus prominently displayed on our living room china hutch. Whatever it was, Stella Josephine knew something was up and seemed to be just as excited as Mommy when she saw that someone had definitely left her a little something in her stocking the night before.

Christmas Eve & Christmas Part Deux

Here are some shots of my friend Ashley Callahan and I on Christmas Eve. Along with more early Christmas shots with Mama Vi, Grandpa Bill and company.

Uncle Miguel (ahem, Mikey) is Home!!!

Uncle Mikey and I met for the first time December 21st. He looks like he might be related to me. He's a little too skinny to be this Gordita's uncle, though. It was so great greeting him at the airport and seeing how grown up he has become being gone for two years in Managua, Nicaragua. I am very proud of my uncle and hope to be as brave as he is one day!

Kindermusik Graduation

Stella has moved from Class 1, titled "Zoom Buggy" to Class 2, "Dream Pillow" and now on to Class 3, "Sign & Sing." That's right, folks, it never stops. Class 3 isn't for just any old baby...it's designed for the veteran Kindermusik junkie. Here, you can see Stella and her classmates with Aussie instructor, Ms. Cathy Moore. To learn more check out: www.musicandmychild.com.

WE ARE FAMILY

Auntie Marissa brought her neice Ashley over for some play time. We hit it off!

Leaving Indian Wells ... Saying Good Bye to Aunt Ev and Cousin Denise.

75 degrees and Balmy... Merry Christmas!

Near Right: Cousins Jessica, Taylor & Alexis
Far Right: Mommy, Cousin Nick, Great Uncle Bob & Great Great Uncle Benny

Stella made her way to sunny Indian Wells for a little pre-Christmas celebration Gonsalves-style. Thanks to her Great Uncle Anthony & Aunt Evelyn for the spectacular party!

Top Left: Grammy & Aunt Mary

Top Right: The Grandparents

Bottom Left: M&D

Bottom Right: Great Godfather Anthony