Our First Christmas: Part 2

Our last post focused on all the people we spent time with during our Christmas travels. Now, we'll talk about what we did. Some of our activities included...

TAKING LOTS OF PICTURES 

With 3 cute babies, a fun-loving dog, and a precious 3-year-old running around, it seemed like someone was always snapping a picture. Cody (first) and Jaden posed happily for their "My First Christmas" photos.

OPENING PRESENTS
At the Schleicher household, presents are traditionally opened on Christmas Eve. This year, some of the gift opening spilled over to Christmas Day as well. (We added several more present openers to the mix, so the process took a bit more time!)

The family was so generous in giving to Jaden & Cody. Thanks for all the kind gifts, everyone!

"RUNNING" RACES
Cody and Jaden's newly discovered love of walking has inspired a bit of competition with Mommy and Daddy.

Jaden and Daddy started off with a great lead.

Cody, however, made up a lot of ground at the halfway turnaround. Perhaps he was motivated by Aunt Beth's nearby encouragement.

Cody (at least this time) won the victory!

RESTING WITH DADDY & MOMMY

All the walking and racing caused our two little guys to be tuckered out! We certainly didn't mind the extra cuddle time.

Daddy & Cody

Mommy & Jaden

PLAYING GAMES

After the little ones went to bed, the adults would break out the board games. Here we are learning a new game, Samurai. Since we chose to play in teams by couples, we enjoyed laughing at one another as we'd whisper strategies behind our Chinese screens.

And, of course, we had to play our family favorite, Stone Age.

Well... most of us played, anyway. Jason focused on cheering for his beloved Lions instead. Does it ever feel like you're the only fan left, Jason?

Mom Schleicher set out a counter full of delicious treats each night. There was definitely no shortage of snack food in this household! Thanks for all the yummy goodies!

TWIN TIME
Jaden and Cody show off their new sock monkey hats, handmade by a member of Grandma and Grandpa's church. The hats' tassels became quite the fun toy in themselves!

Each visit, Uncle Andy makes sure to bring along his Twins jersey for an appropriate Twins shot.

Jaden, Cody

The boys have certainly grown since their last in-the-jersey photo! Uncle Andy took this one in July, when the boys were only a month old. What a difference!

Cody, Jaden

HANGING OUT WITH FAMILY FRIENDS
This trip, we were privileged to see Mom Schleicher's good friend from Chicago, Beth Young. She also lovingly held and played with Cody and Jaden.

Beth would make a funny duck sound for the boys that instantly brought a laugh! For the adults, Beth brought with her all kinds of tasty homemade goodies. Yum! We ALL loved Beth's visit!

EATING DINNER TOGETHER
What a treat to have a table full of loved ones! As you can see, at least 3 people had to get pretty good at balancing a baby while eating during most meals. We ate such yummy food-- thanks for all the tasty meals, Mom Schleicher!

HAVING SISTER TIME
What fun it is for Amy to have her sister Kim on both sides of the family! Not many sisters can claim that! We enjoy having the privilege of being together for every family gathering.

PLAYING WITH ACE
We were so impressed with Ace's calm presence around 3 small babies. We never had to worry about him! Ace's most popular playmate was usually Ian, but here, Jason gets some good 1-on-1 doggie time.

BONDING WITH OUR NEPHEWS
Jason, experienced with holding 2 babies simultaneously, tries to calm little Ryan while holding Cody, too.

Amy enjoyed reading to Ian. He LOVES books and sits so patiently as he listens to any story. Ian's a bit more interactive than the twins, too!

Amy also enjoyed giggling with Ryan. Jason and Amy both remarked frequently how STILL Ryan was in our arms! He's such a calm and content baby!

CELEBRATING JESUS' BIRTH
Of course, the primary reason for our Christmas celebration is the coming of our Savior. We thank God for the gift of His Son, Jesus. It is because of this Gift that we have forgiveness and the promise of life eternal. We praise God for this Christmas joy!

After church, we took time for some family photos.

Mommy & Jaden, Daddy & Cody

Christmas just isn't quite complete without a poinsettia picture! :)

This was the best shot we could get of the 4 youngest Schleicher boys.

 It was a blessing to worship together with our whole extended family.

We praise the Lord for His many gifts, including our precious family. It was a joy to be with you all! Thanks for giving Jaden and Cody such a memorable 1st Christmas!