Love our Aunt Magz

Gavin loves his Aunt Magz... she came over once we got home from the 10 day tour. And, she has the touch to make Gavin smile from ear to ear...

We survived the Christmas Tour

So our first Christmas with Gavin - what a special one! Here were a few of the highlights and lessons learned:
- Never wake up Gavin in the car when driving long distances (i.e. 4-7 hours visiting family members)
- Nursing in the car with little room, folding down the front seat and changing Gavin's diaper - who knew Scott's car was made for babies
-Mommy does NOT need to take a separate bag of just her shoes
- Daddy learned the act of "perfection" when it came to packing ALL of our personal belongings for the trip PLUS adding in all of our gifts (we only had to keep a few things back at G&G's houses)
- Mommy does not need to pack EVERYTHING that Gavin owns (you just never know what you will need)
- Giving a bottle in the middle of the night from Daddy was a revelation for Mommy's sleep and mood
- Gavin could sleep in the pack-n-play or crib (THANK GOD - he is flexible from the start)
- Having an answer to "How long is Gavin sleeping at night?".... we just started making things up
- Listening to everyone's thoughts on who Gavin looks like (Illinois - looks like Stacy and Michigan - looks like Scott)
- Lastly, truly understanding the meaning of Christmas - love from family & friends and enjoying the best gift of all, our precious Gavin.

To view all of our photos during the 2007 Christmas Tour - click below:
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0AZN2bNu5asWLD3g&emid=sharshar&linkid=link5

Now that is a Party - Gillard Christmas Party

Each year, the Gillards host a Christmas party at their home for family and friends to celebrate the holidays. My first year dating Scott, it was quite the party - staying up till 3 a.m., late night in the hot tub with friends, enjoying in "adult beverages" (lots of adult beverages....). And oh, how the years and our lives have changed too. We were so excited to see several of Scott's friends - several of whom brought their kids - but everyone was gone by 8 p.m. And, the house was empty by 11 p.m.... it is crazy what happens when you "grow up," have kids - yes, your bedtime is a little earlier now. It was great to see so many family and friends - and Gavin got to meet Mark too - another very special friend in our lives.

Cousin Ty Loves to Tickle & Give Kisses

Gavin loves spending time with his cousin, Ty.... I think he knows how to tickle Gavin and also give good kisses. And, Gavin loved getting a bottle from Grandma G.

Grandpa G. and Storytime

Grandpa G. loves his grandsons and we had to take time for a story to be read. Now that is just too precious....

Look at those PJ's

Grandma & Grandpa Gillard bought matching pajamas for Ty and Gavin - so of course we had to get some pictures of them together. And - oh how that was fun. At first - just fine, then crying - then mommy needs to console and then let's lay on Gavin.

True Blue - Gillard Family Photo

OK - so we didn't all wake up on Thursday morning and decide to wear blue. Yes, it was coordinated - but what a great family photo! And, how cute are those two little boys in their matching snowman pj's from Grandma and Grandpa. This one will for sure go in a frame! We are so blessed to have such a wonderful family.... Gavin will be loved so much!