More Christmas Photos & Videos

I promised my Wisconsin family that I would take pictures of the girls opening their Christmas gifts, so they'd see exactly how the Christmas money was spent. (With the cost of shipping, it's easier for everyone if I just use the gift money to purchase things that the girls would like.) The majority of the money went into their savings accounts, but I did get a few gifts that ended being big hits.

Grandma Jo, Grandpa Clint and Grandma Reda - you can be assured that the girls loved everything. And they are still discovering the magic as they play together.

The wooden Career Puzzles were perfect. In fact, Eva just completed her very first puzzle last night, unassisted.

Amanda likes to dance with her ballerina doll, but Eva is terrified of "her" and cowers whenever "she" gets too close.

Both kids absolutely love playing with these nesting Santa dolls.

Curious George and A Pocket for Corduroy

As you might expect, these favorite books from Grandpa Clint and Grandma Reda went over really well.

We've checked out Baby Bear, Baby Bear so much from our library, I was beginning to wonder if they might revoke our privileges. Eva was very excited to receive her own copy of the book and insisted on reading it immediately.

These posable wooden children have been fun too.

The set of eight multi-cultural hand puppets was a hit, although at first Amanda seemed disappointed that they weren't dolls. 

Amanda quickly discovered that there was an age restriction on them. “It says you have to be four.” 

VIDEO: The puppets


VIDEO: The ballerina doll, which straps onto Amanda's feet.


VIDEO: Eva playing with the wild animals, complete with sound effects.

So, a big thank you to all of you for the generous gifts of money and toys/books/puzzles! The girls are definitely enjoying (and sharing!) their gifts.