This was the first time we’ve had a tree since we lived in Ann Arbor. We bought this tree on clearance after Christmas last year and put it up for the first time this year. Will and I made the garland out of Mardi Gras beads, hung ornaments that hadn’t seen light in over 4 years, and made assorted decorations. (Will is quite the crafty guy.)
This one was Kate’s (she put the nose on all by herself). Will and I helped guide her with the rest.
Will and I put together this ice skater. The best part is that Will wrote his name on the ice behind the figure.
This doggie is 100% Will. Note that the dog’s mouth is a “W.”
Another Will original — with glitter and Popsicle sticks!
My favorite ornament… of Paul’s 2-year old hand.
Kate and the Christmas tree, Christmas Eve day. We hung everything out of reach of Kate — she loved messing up the garland and we didn’t want to give her much opportunity to get involved with anything else. 
After Santa’s visit, in the wee hours Christmas morning. The doggie rocker was for Kate and the Black-n-Decker workbench for Will. Both were huge hits. Other treats: Will gave Kate an animal hospital set, Kate got a Baby Stella doll, Will got a talking and racing Lightening McQueen (even Kate can program it; she is alarmingly brilliant) and we all got pajamas. Santa brought both kids Ugly Dolls and they are great (Will LOVES his “Big Toe” and has been taking it everywhere.) Paul and I had some big exciting items, too… a camera lens (for me) and a tile saw (for Paul). 
Below, sometime Christmas morning. We opened presents slowly and in waves, finishing some the following day. Here, Paul is asleep on the floor while PapPap and Kate play with the animal hospital (a gift picked out for Kate by Will, “because Kate likes gatos”).
Will working on his workbench. 
Will colored the ornament below last year.
Granna and Kate open up the Baby Stella doll.
It was so nice to be home for Christmas, even if the day was crazy. It will be very hard to take down the tree!
{ 2007 12 28 }
Anonymous | 30-Dec-07 at 7:15 pm | Permalink
Holly-How does Kate like her “Baby Stella” doll? I found “Baby Stella” online a few months ago and can’t WAIT till my Baby Stella is old enough for the doll that shares her name. Hope you guys had a wonderful holiday–the work on your house is amazing. We’re having huge amounts of fun up here with our giggly little bundle.
XOXO, Elena