Christmas with the Nelsons 2013

Geoff, Hylie and I had a wonderful time spending Christmas in Pennsylvania with my family.  We treasured our time there but missed Grant, Rachel, Eli, Eric and Morgan and all of Geoff's family as well.

Hylie did a much better job warming up to her Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and cousins during this visit.  She still had her moments here and there, but she definitely was more comfortable than she was at Thanksgiving.

Santa was kind enough to stop at Grandma and Grandpa Nelson's to bring Hylie her gifts. 

Yes, that is Hylie FINALLY walking on her own!  Hylie decided Christmas Eve it was time to step out on her own!

Geoff and I enjoyed watching her check out her new surprises.

I love this shot of Janna.  She got such a kick out of her orange gloves from Eric and Morgan.

It was also a treat to see this Nativity on display.  Janna made this when she was in Elementary school, but with all the little (destructive) kids running around for so many years, it was much safer for it to stay wrapped in a box than out at Christmas Time.  Mom and Dad brought it down from the attic this year--what a treat to see Janna's talent portraying this Precious Event.

While we were there, Mom also taught me the art of making apple streusel!  This treat was mastered by my Great Grandma Usenicnik--she often made it for our Sunday visits.  Mom definitely has streusel making in her blood!  I need to try stretching dough again soon so I don't forget how to do it.

I've noticed that Hylie often sits with her knees bent forward--just like her Grandma Nelson, so I had to get a picture of them in their signature position.

And yes, it skipped a generation...

I also wanted to get some pictures with Hylie and her Grandparents, but she was so fussy, I had to hold her...I wasn't planning in being in ALL the shots, just the four generation pic.

Grandpa and Grandma Nelson

Four Generations



Pap Pap and Grandma Furin

Thanks so much to all the family for a wonderful Christmas gathering.  Christmas means so much more when it is spent with family.  We love you and miss you so much.