Christmas Part 2 - Hervey Bay

On Christmas morning the kids woke around 6am. I got them dressed and then we hung out in the bedroom for a little while playing games and chatting. At 6:30am we came out and openned the last Christmas countdown book - the Christmas Story - and we read it together (well, Daniel, Eliza and I read it together, Alexander came and went as he wanted).

We then sent a video to Daddy to say that we missed him and couldn't wait to have him back.

We then headed to church with Nana J and Boompa for the Christmas morning service. It was great to have a few helping hands with the kids.

When we got back home Alexander went down for a nap and Daniel and Eliza made some signs to hold up for Daddy when he arrived at the airport. It was quite fun making them and watching the kids get so into it.

We then did some fun photos together to use up the time.

Daniel and Eliza had fun throwing the ball filled with many giggles. I just loved watching Eliza's face each time the ball was thrown to her.

Then it was time to go and get Daddy! So exciting! We drove to the airport and as we walked in, Daddy's plane had landed (it was a little bit early). The kids were doing so well holding up their signs.

They were very excited to see Daddy come up the ramp and he was very touched to see the signs and their smiling faces.

They were so happy to see Daddy! Cuddles all around.

Whilst Daddy got his suit the kids had fun cuddling and walking around in circles together. I also noticed that I had dressed Daniel and Alexander matchy matchy.

When we got back to Nana J and Boompa's place we got a family Christmas photo. So nice to be all together again :-)

The table was set and looked lovely.

While we waited for people to arrive Alexander tried on the reindeer antlers. He looked pretty cute.

Then we decided to do Christmas presents together. We went over to Nana J and Boompa's Christmas tree and gave the kids their presents. 

They didn't get much but were very happy with their gifts! 
Daniel LOVED his Hot Wheels racing car driver costume. He put it straight on even in the heat and humidity!

Alexander straight away went for a walk with his trolley bag.

Eliza adored her fairy costume and also put it straight on. High 5s to James and I for shopping well this Christmas.

As we were finishing present time Jenny, Ryan, Maddie and Aly arrived. The kids were very excited to see each other again.

Eliza and Aly were having a lovely time playing together. I asked them to do a cuddling photo and they obliged. Then Daniel ran up behind them and threw his arms around them both. I just LOVE this photo!

Maddie then followed closely behind and I asked her if she wanted to be in a photo too and she said yes. So much love between these cousins.

 Then it was time for lunch. There was the kiddy table, plus Uncle Ryan, minus Alexander who was in the high chair at the adult table. It was nice to sit, chat and enjoy a meal together.

Christmas crackers were again enjoyed.

And the toys were put to good use. Boompa used the mini cards to play a game of solitare which Eliza was interested in.

I love photos of these 2 together.

And it was nice to have all the couples together too.

 After lunch Maddie and Daniel and Eliza had fun playing in the pool while Alexander hung out with us on the stairs. Alexander was happy to have Daddy back, giving him lots of hugs.

After a swim and a nap for Aly and Alexander it was gingerbread house time. Nana J bought a gingerbread house for the kids to make. They had a great time decorating it a few days before Christmas and took the task very seriously.

Nana J and I decorated the roof and put it together.

It was very popular to eat and tasty too. A fun task for the kids.
Then it was time for more presents. The kids loved getting puppets and books from Nana J and Boompa and fun shirts and stampers from Auntie Jen, Uncle Ryan and the girls.

The rest of the day was filled with playing games, hanging out and a bit of ABCKids. At bedtime I remembered that there was one more present for the kids from the Carltons. They were keen to use their gifts - Science books, Frozen colouring in and a book. The kids slept well at night.