Christmas Day

We purposely didn't put any presents under the tree until after James went to bed on Christmas Eve so he would be surprised on Christmas morning. And, we got the reaction we were hoping for! James kept pointing at the lighted tree, and staring at all the presents. He did not want to open any of his presents (strangely), but he was really excited about them once mama and dada opened them. We took lots of video of the gift opening, but no pictures. I'll have to sort through the video and will hopefully post some soon.

Dave and I decided to have an Italian themed Christmas in terms of food this year. We found some wonderful recipes from Giada on the Food Network that filled our bellies from breakfast to dinner. We started the day off with a delicious French toast made from an Italian Christmas bread called Pannetone. Our lunch was a very simple pasta with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. For dinner we had a pot roast with minestrone soup and cheesy polenta. And for dessert, we had tiramisu made by the Central Market bakery. Everything was delicious, and we will definitely be using all the recipes again!

We spent the day eating, playing with James' new toys, and enjoying the company of Dave's family. We could not have asked for a better Christmas!

Family photo after all the presents were opened

James is vacuuming the house with his new vacuum! Thanks little buddy!

Daddy trying to teach James how to bowl

Uncle Mike and James jamming out on their guitars

Aunt Amanda, Uncle Mike and Nana