I didn’t take many photos Christmas day. I suppose I became too caught up in the excitement of opening presents (so many presents) and really enjoying the day to take any photos.

It was just the four of us this year which was nice and quiet. A little sad to be so far from home but grateful not to be traveling through the awful snowy weather we’ve been having. It snowed again on Christmas day so we truly did have a white Christmas – and the worst snow storm in 100 years. Not sure I need to experience that again.

Santa visited our house and left a play kitchen for the boys and some fun stocking stuffers like balloon propelled boats and balsa wood aeroplanes. The only thing he didn’t bring is the one toy Thomas had asked for again and again – a Slinky Dog. Good thing Santa left a note explaining that he had been a little disorganized and so was sending a package through the mail in a few days. Of course now we get asked if it’s arrived 100 times a day.

A few other highlights – some blocks and a stuffed knitted Monkey for Samuel and a pirate ship (maybe the favourite toy), a magnetic “responsibility chart” and kitchen utensils for Thomas who, when he opened the utensils, gave them a big hug and said “I love it”. My Mum and my Brother also sent some toys which the boys loved. Well Thomas did and we’re sure Samuel will too when he’s old enough to appreciate it.

I was lucky enough to get a spa certificate with no strings attached childcare which is definitely something I will enjoy later. Kei got his ipod touch a few months ago so I just added to it with The Flying Conchords on DVD. I also ordered Ironman which was supposed to arrive on Christmas eve but somehow got lost after being put on the delivery truck. They’re sending me another one.

We also received a couple of games for the Wii from Kei’s sister’s family – Wii Music which is fun for us to play together, and Wii Fit which is going to help me lose 20 pounds (really!). I have been playing it for a few days now and if the pain through my belly is any indication, then it’s definitely working.

We were able to catch up with my family on Christmas eve (Christmas Day in Australia) using Google Video (which is awesome!) and then we called Kei’s sister and mother, and my family again, on Christmas day.

Oh, and I also cooked dinner – Prime Rib with Mushroom, Rosemary and Red Wine sauce, mashed potatoes, green beans and carrots. It was tasty but the sauce was a little gelatinous because I added too much cornstarch. Good thing we have a lot of chocolate to wash it down. Santa is always very generous with the stocking stuffers for me and Kei – I make sure of it.

Hope yours was a good one too.