Holly Jolly First Christmas

The holidays have been hectic around here but so enjoyable at the same time. That being said, I'm hoping that things will calm down a bit after the new year. I can't believe how fast time is flying- it's New Year's Eve already and in a few more weeks my little baby is turing one! Now that Christmas is over party planning is in full effect and while I'm beyond excited for her first birthday and party I am so sad to think that my baby is not such a baby anymore, she's becoming a toddler and I still feel like we just came home from the hospital last month. 

I know I'm a little late to the party but here is a little holiday recap: 

I couldn't decide on Christmas cards so we had two this year.

We went to see Santa on Christmas Eve and Aubrey was less than thrilled but it did make for a great first picture with Santa. We'll definitely be pulling this out and laughing about it 15 years from now.

All dressed up and ready for the Christmas Eve festivities to begin.

We spent Christmas Eve with my husband's family as we do every year and Aubrey had lots of fun visiting with her cousins and opening some gifts. She also enjoyed dinner with us- she loves fettuccine alfredo!

The night before Christmas...

Playing with some new toys on Christmas morning.

Loving her new play tent- it was a hit!

 It was just the three of us on Christmas morning and it was so much fun. My parents and brothers joined us for brunch at our home and from there we got dressed and went to my aunt's house for Christmas dinner. It was such a busy day and we didn't take nearly as many photos as we wanted- we never got a good family photo either unfortunately. It was such a whirlwind of excitement and I'm glad that we were living in the moment and not posing for photos all day but a do wish we got at least one... hopefully next year!

A favorite Christmas tradition- Struffoli. My great grandma made these when I was little and I always remember her making me a little plate of them. My grandfather eventually took over the tradition and now my mom and I make them every year and every year I can't wait to indulge in a nice big plate of them. It's basically a fried dough ball covered in honey. Delish and so nostalgic. 

Chalkboard fun!

I didn't waste any time putting the chalkboard wall to good use.

I was pinspired to make a Merry Mail hanger for all of our cards. It was so easy and I think it came out pretty good too.