Merry Christmas 2012

O Christmas Tree O Christmas Tree, how extravagent is your owner's spending?

I wish we knew what they were looking at, but perhaps the interesting thing about this photo is not that they are wearing the same PJ's, or sitting in a mountain of gifts, or that we don't know in what they are both interested... perhaps the most interesting thing is that they appear to be getting along.

These two, despite their striking differences, seem to be two peas in a pod.

Ready to depart on the Polar Express in Hood River, Oregon. Ryan is snickering at the fact that Nana and Mommy were the only two adult suckers who wore their PJ's.

On our way up the mountain to see Santa.

Ryan scoping out the fly fishermen.

A beautiful photo taken by Kyle.

In order to get Ryan to smile, I tell him, "In order to win the sweetness competition, you need to smile for the photo!"

Hanging on to his golden ticket.

Sneaking in a kiss when Uncle Matt pretends to be asleep - the rocking and lulling of the train was too much for Uncle Matt to handle... or it might have been the early wake ups of "Uncle! Uncle! Why you don't ever wake up all day?"

And finally we found Santa and saw Mrs. Claus. We were sure to thank him for all of the wonderful presents he brought us.

Ryan was a little apprehensive, but happy to see Santa.

The train ride back into town. We had beautiful weather, which was a miracle in and of itself.

During Uncle Matt's visit, we also stopped by the Audubon Society, where Ryan ran into this fella.

A photo of Kyle's gingerbread house from a party at his friend's house.  During an argument, Kyle informed me, "Mom, you are the worst mom in Kindergarten"  Later I was told that Giselle's mom was the best mom in Kindergarten, and after this party, I can't help but agree with him.

A zoo trip to see the new baby elephant, Lily, who is 1 month old.

And here she is with her mom, Rose Tu. 

Note our matching beaver hats.

Although the Beavs lost at the Alamo Bowl, this guy still believes in Beavers.

Ryan's not afraid to put his head in a lion's mouth.

Look close for the cheetah.

A happy pop up.

An unhappy smurf penguin.

Startled to learn about Amur Leopards.

Back to back with the leopards.