Like Father Like Daughter

I had no idea the resemblance, until Etna, Rafa's mom, put this together.  Aside from the extra rolls, they are identical!

Our Christmas

Because we are leaving for Brasil on 12/24, Rafa and I thought it would be great to celebrate Christmas this past Sunday. So we enjoyed a leisurely morning by the tree watching Lucia and Bella open presents and playing with their gifts.  Then we bundled up and walked to Starbucks for a hot beverage.  Later in the day we had our Christmas dinner, watched The Grinch, and then topped the day off with a walk through the lights at Peacock Lane.  I enjoyed the relaxing day, especially since there has been so much going on this month, and of course having 2 Christmas's are better than one :)  Now the bags are packed and we are headed to Brasil in just 4 days!

Christmas at the Deziels

This past weekend the Deziel family invited us for a Christmas with friends.  It is nice to have friends close, especially since family is so far away so I am glad we were able to make it this year.  It was great to see everyone, enjoy yummy food and drinks, and watch the little ones open presents during their gift exchange.  This was the first present Lucia ever opened, and what do you know, she loved the paper more than the gift ; )

Night Out in Portland!

Last weekend, Rafa's company Christmas party was at the RiverPlace hotel along the waterfront.  So we decided to stay the night, enjoy the party, and have our friend Noela watch Lucia in the hotel room. It was a great hotel with excellent service and nice touches throughout the stay, even though it was only one night. Cori and Marty joined us for a glass of wine before the party and then the party had great food and gambling tables.  So much fun!  I am glad we decided to stay the night, it made going out to the party that much easier and comfortable.  I admit though, I was worried  about how Lucia was doing, I am still not used to having babysitters, even if they are friends ; )

Zoo Lights!

Last week our family went to the Zoo Lights with the neighborhood association.  Its a small cookie exchange and canned food drive.  This year we ventured out with Lucia, even though it was waaaaayy past her bedtime.  The good news is that it was not as cold as it has been the last few years.  Next year should be fun when Lucia is walking :)

Almost A Meltdown :)

Lucia's first visit with Santa "Kennedy" Claus.   It was almost a meltdown until Mommy started singing, clapping and jumping up down.  My mom calls me "Lucia's one woman show".  I do what I can to avoid tears, this time was no different :)

Our Afternoon

Ya know, I've been feeling a little stressed lately and my "to do" list before we leave for Brasil keeps getting longer. So after a day of holiday errands, donation drop offs and a cookie exchange party all I wanted to do was to curl up with my babe and not do a thing. She is about the softest most peaceful place I could ever be...

Christmas Choir Event

Last night we went to the Portland Christian Center for one of their beautiful Christmas performances. Marisa, her girls and her mom joined us. It was a nice little evening and Lucia did awesome, especially since it didn't start until 30 minutes after her bedtime. I only brought my cell, but here are a few pics. Merry Christmas!

End of a long day...

And this is where we found ourselves. Hanging out as close as possible to one another. #lovemyfamily

Merry and Bright

Lucia Is Crawling!

So we knew this day would be here anytime and last night we saw the little rascal take a few moves forward. The end of the video is adorable. Let the games begin!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JZX86TYUL4&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Lucia 1st School Photos

Joy in Music

In our house, no one is allowed to whistle or even hum a holiday tune until the day after Thanksgiving.  And then when that day hits, there is no stopping us  And every year the music is playing in the car, at our home, work, all over the place.  And we love it.  And when Rafa and I talk about our favorites, this is what we always say:

Me: This one brings me to happy tears almost every time!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpPdl0StUVs

Rafa: I think Rafa loves the playfulness of it :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTNheCEUP_A