We woke up Saturday morning to a white Christmas. Something certainly unusual for Ireland, but a first for Jessica and the kids. It took us all day to open presents, between the gifts, the snow and Christmas dinner it was a very full day!

As you can see, Andrew got a new bike which he rides every day around the house. Erin passed into a new phase of life preteen. She now hangs out in her room dancing and singing along to her favorite cds on her new jambox (do they still call it a jambox?)

The kids had a great time outside all bundled up, scooping the snow off cars and throwing at each other and mommy!

Mimi Helen joined us this year to unwrap a few dozen presents. She came early enough to enjoy Andrew in his school play that Jessica painted a backdrop for. She also got to see them both in their school Christmas Carols Concert. Andrew loved his new Santa hat his teacher, Ms. Smyth got him. And of course, what are the holidays without a few cute girls draped all over him!

We waited for Mom to put the final decorations on the tree. I know we have boxes of ornaments in storage in the States but since we were only here a short while originally we have had to come up with creative solutions for holiday cheer. We took our annual photos in front of the tree and the kids found their way to Santa to ensure their rewquests made it in on time. Erin got a bonus this year, though I am not sure it comes with any extra presents. She turned 100 months old on the 21st of December, a bit of trivia we just happened to stumble on but which made for a good laugh and round of Happy Birthday none the less.

Mom and I are off to Italy on the 26th so check in again in the new year for more exciting pics!