Christmas 2009

It sure was a different Christmas this year. Our family packed up on Wednesday night to stay with the Petersons so we would be able to be with family through the storm. It isn't surprising that Will learned a new word "Noe" aka "snow". South Dakota was bombarded with snow, snow and more snow over Christmas. We were still able to travel (with care) between the Tatges and the Petersons. Will's cousin, Alivya, happened to be staying with Pam and Keith, so the two kids had a blast playing together. Will wanted to do everything Alivya did and Alivya enjoyed taking care of Will.

I was surprised how excited Will got over the gifts this Christmas. He even was interested in more than just the boxes, paper and tissue. Our living room has quickly turned into a toy kingdom. Good thing he doesn't have a December birthday like his parents. His favorite gifts are his Bob the Builder DVDs, the Little People Airport, little diggers, books and his Elmo slippers.

Santa - Ho, Ho, Ho

Rylee and Alex with Santa

Spencer and Alicia & Will with Santa

Tha Gang with Santa and Alicia and Will with Santa

All the kids with Alicia and Drew with Santa

So I guess it has been a while since I have posted pictures on the blog - oops! A couple weeks ago we took our traditional visit to see Santa Claus. We were happy to see that Downtown Santa is still the city's best kept secret. There was a very short line, a beautiful setting and a wonderful, very patient Santa. My friends and I gathered all the kids and set out for the adventure.

Like I said, Santa is a VERY patient man. First, Will and Quinn were a bit scared of Santa. The words of Quinn sum it up best, "Santa scarry!" Second, trying to get all six kids to pose in a picture with Santa while a line is forming behind us was challenging. Third, we had our wonderful photographer, Suzie, there to capture just the right moments of each child alone with Santa -so we pushed our time with Santa just a bit.

As you can see Will would not sit with Santa. Santa told me to take a seat on his lap with Will on mine. Not sure I needed to be a part of the annual Santa picture, but it will make for some good memories. Since visiting Santa Will enjoys telling you what Santa says (see the video), but when asked, "Will, do you like Santa?" he will always answer, "No!" I'm sure his tune will change in years to come.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas!

Chris, Alicia and Will