Merry Christmas Everyone!

Well, it's that time of the year. The time for laughter and love, for family, friends, presents and good food. Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year, just as it is for so many other people. But since I moved to Holland, it's been a holiday filled with mixed feelings. I really miss my family and friends who I can't be with. On the other hand, we are having a great time with Ilianna this year. She finally gets the whole present thing, and we only have to say "kadootje pakke" (grab a present) to her, and she's on her hands and knees in front of the Christmas tree. Up until now every present she has opened she has been focused on the paper, and how it tears, and now she just tears at the paper with the goal of seeing what is inside! It's really great to see! She has also been opening the Christmas cards for us, so she's really getting involved with the whole Christmas thing.

So to everyone we can't be with this year...Mom, Dad, Fred, Melissa, Lukas and Owen, Dave, and all my friends, here and there... Merry Christmas to all of you!