Christmas {Sledding}

By far, the highlight of Christmas vacation for Nixon (and us) was sledding.  Despite temps that hovered in the teens or even lower, Nixon loved being outside, and we loved seeing the joy on his face.

Yes, Donovan is on skis pushing Nixon - how else would he get going fast enough?

Christmas {Celebrating}

Our Christmas celebration this year was special for many reasons, including being together with both our families for the first time in four years, but most of all because it was little Nixon's first Christmas.  He didn't really understand the meaning of it all, and like most kids his age he was more entertained by the boxes and wrapping paper than the actual gifts, but he had a great time being spoiled and loved on by everyone and we all loved sharing in his joy.

With his stocking - not really sure what to do with it!

Realizing there are toys in there!

Delivering a gift to Aunt Amanda

Hard at work - sometimes it got to the intended person, sometimes it didn't

Pepper jelly from Uncle Hoyt

This plane is cool, but this box is amazing

Checking out his new book

Hard at play

An Update

We finally have internet at our new house, which means I can finally get around to sharing a few updates on what's been going on.  It's been several weeks since we said arrivaderci to Italy and it feels like we've been going nonstop since then.  We spent a couple weeks in Colorado, catching up with family, readjusting to life in the States, and taking a little breather from the stress of moving.  We didn't get out and do a whole lot while we were there, but we did manage one hike in the mountains.  Nixon was a trooper, snoozing in the Ergo for the majority of the hike.

The highlight of the trip for Nixon, aside from the constant snuggles from all his grandparents, was a visit to the fire station.  Turns out he's a pretty good junior firefighter.

We've been in NC for a little over a week, and have been busy with moving into our house, buying a car, exploring the area, etc.  Things are finally starting to settle down into a routine, which all of us (mostly Nixon) are appreciating.  I'll be posting a few updates on the house once all our stuff arrives from Italy.  Also, Nixon's six month (!!) update should be up soon!

Here's to 2013

Happy New Year to everyone!  Yes, I realize I'm a few days late.  Due to some technical difficulties, I've been a bit quiet on the blog lately, but I've got the issues ironed out now.  So, hopefully this new year will be full of blogging!

I've been enjoying the holidays back home in Colorado.  The last couple weeks have been filled with family, lots of food, and finally getting to experience some snow. 

I still have just under two weeks before I head back to Italy, so I'm staying busy relaxing (wait, is that even possible?) and trying to resist going to Starbucks three times a day.  Maybe I can squeeze a blog redesign in there as well?  Hmm...  At the very least, I do have some photos of my Thanksgiving trip to London to share with you all.  Stay tuned!

2013 promises to be full of exciting things, the most notable being welcoming Donovan home and my brother's wedding.  Aside from those, we're looking forward to whatever 2013 throws at us!