christmas morning

what a morning. grace finally got to open up her dollhouse from grandma and papa blackard. i can't believe it stayed wrapped by the tree without her peeking. she had a fun morning running around playing with all her new toys.

growing up fast!!!

our little girl is turning into a little lady. just look at all the changes. even santa has changed a little!!

Santa Hawaiian Style

we went to hilo yesterday to see santa and go to the mall. before leaving, i talked to grace about seeing santa and talking to him and telling him about what toy she would like for christmas. 2 weeks ago we saw a santa at wal-mart and had to beg her to get near him. she refused to smile.

so we weren't expecting too much . when we got to santa, we sat on a bench and watched him for a while. then when we got in line to see him (only a guy and girl in front of us) she just bypassed them and walked right up to santa and got in his lap like it was no big deal!! he was a great santa, talked to her and she told him "doll". then we took some pictures and he gave her a piece of candy. and we all left happy and not scarred for life.

have you seen ric's picture with santa......now that is being scarred for life.

O Christmas Tree

last weekend we went to a tree farm and picked out our Christmas tree. we went back this past friday and cut it down. i think we have a new family tradition!!! the tree farm is at the very top of koloko, (above kona). since it is a high elevation, it was pretty chilly up there. ric busted out the flannel for the occasion, and grace wore her favorite jean jacket from grandma. ric did the actual cutting, as gracie looked on. then we loaded onto a 4-wheeler, and off it went to our truck!! the only way our day could have been better is if we had some hot cocoa to drink....but there is always next year. ;)

3 months later....

we are still behind on getting our pictures from out trip downloaded. hopefully soon. hopefully.