Lincoln's First Christmas

It was exactly 17 weeks ago today that Lincoln was born.  I still think of him in weeks old even though everyone counts months at this point.  In only a few short days he will officially be 4 months old.  It seems like just yesterday we brought Lincoln home and our life began as a family.  All Christmas season we've been getting cards for "The Schultz Family".  I've been tempted to write "Return to Sender" a few times! 

We were looking forward to Lincoln's first Christmas all the while knowing it would probably be much more exciting for us and everyone else than for him.  We love Christmas and seeing our families and sharing in our traditions, but by last night, poor Lincoln was whipped!  After two days off his routine, I think he was happy to have a day at home.

We always spend Christmas Eve with Kirk's family.  The day is always full of fun, food and a lot of gift opening.  Kirk's nieces and nephew went wild and crazy opening gifts and throwing wrapping paper everywhere!  They are at a fun age and it makes the holiday that much more special to experience Christmas through a child's eyes.  (From L to R: Sophia, Noah, Linc and Olivia.)

Noah, Olivia and Sophia all love Lincoln.  In fact, the first thing Noah said to me when they walked in the door was "where's Linc?"  Lincoln did really well and got his fair share of gifts.

On Christmas, we made the trip to Grand Rapids to spend the day with my family.  We were a little worried about the weather, but Mother Nature held out for us and the trip was just fine.  Lincoln did so well and was in a great mood when we got there, but by the end of the day, I think all the excitement of the two days caught up to him and his was miserable!  Poor thing.

Lincoln, again, made out like a bandit!  And he got on some major bonding time with his cousins.  Quin played so well with Lincoln and the babies were in good spirits.  Easton and Lincoln even managed a little play time together.  It didn't last long, but we were able to catch a picture.

I love seeing my family, holiday or no holiday.  This Christmas was much different for my family than last year.  Last year, Joelee was in the hospital on bedrest.  It was great to have everyone together again.  Hard to believe that a year ago there was only one little one there at the family Christmas. This year there were 5!  (From L to R: Ellery, Joelee, Easton and Gianna...sorry, Jo, it's the only picture with all three babies!)

Santa did make a quick trip to our house.  He only left Lincoln with a couple small gifts.  Linc had a great time playing with his new toys, but it wasn't long before he had had enough.

A year ago, we didn't even know we were pregnant.  Here we are one year later celebrating one of life's greatest gifts.  Each Christmas with Lincoln will only get more and more special.  I can't wait until the day he's waking us up at 5 a.m. telling us Santa Claus has been here!

Happy Holidays everyone!