Christmas Vacation

The start to our vacation was nice and simple. The kids played outside, mommy went to the gym, and we got together with some friends. Those first few days were relaxing and we needed it because soon we would be in for a tremendous Christmas experience.
On to Christmas Eve......
Christmas Eve is always a huge affair at the Frisoni home. Every year we get dressed up and pack a bag with PJ's and toys. Aunt Helen (my grandfather's sister) always has tons of food, drink, and fun! The interesting part is that these parties keep becoming less maintenance as far as the kids are concerned. Gianni went off with the big kids and Carmen played pretty quietly so I was able to interact with people instead of being in mom mode. It also helps that my husband is wonderful with the kids when it comes to occupying them at these kinds of events. Thanks honey!

Before we go to Aunt Helen's party, we always pick up Nonna and Pap along the way. They let the kids open their Christmas presents. This year the theme was Family Game Night! The kids opened game after game and were excited to play each one on Christmas morning.

Christmas morning was wonderful, especially for Mr. Gianni. He received the long awaited drum set and Carmen is quite good on the drums as well.

Carmen was so excited to receive lip gloss and Dora toenail polish from Santa!
Mommy and daddy bought her a puppet theater stand which is entertainment for us because she is hilarious when she puts on a show.

In the afternoon Abel and I went to the Cardinals game. It was a long day but so much fun. We met up with the Roseland Family and their friends to tailgate. When that was wrapped up it was into the company suite for Konica Minolta (Abel's work) and we watched what was probably the best game of the season. It was unusual to not be with the kids on Christmas Day but the big breakfast and presents were all over with so we took advantage of the free tickets!

Yesterday, we packed up the car and headed to Williams, Arizona (thanks to the Nonna and Papa of course). 99% of the cool things we do with our kids are because of them! Thanks again guys. In Williams you can board the Polar Express and take a trip to the north pole. Carmen...was a disaster in Williams...I'll just say it...she totally was! We went for a swim in the indoor pool and from that point on it was downhill from there. She perked up a bit on the train though!

Today, we woke up and enjoyed our buffet breakfast at the hotel. A cowboy walked into the eating area and started shouted about who took his lady. Then he announced a description of the man that took his lady....and it was my dad. He came over and gave my dad a hard time in front of everyone which was quite funny.

After breakfast we went to Bearizona, which is basically a park that you drive through and animals roam right by your car. There is also a walking section where you can get up close to baby animals and hibernating animals.

Finally, we made our way to the Wing Mountain Snow Play Area. This area is about 10 miles NW of Flagstaff. Last year Carmen cried the entire time in the snow. She wouldn't even walk in it. Check out the pics from this year. Very different story! So proud of her!

That is not me pushing Gianni. It is some random lady.

So far our vacation has been eventful. Tonight we are home preparing for the big wedding day for my brother Justin.