Christmas in Iowa

The first and second Christmases of 2015 are in the books! On Friday we loaded up and left for Iowa, where we celebrated with my (Jeritt's) side of the family. It was our first Christmas without my mom (so don't expect to see any car photos below:)), but we did our best to celebrate her favorite time of the year. Her absence was felt by all and we're very thankful for the wonderful family she created. The kids had a great time as usual, but by Sunday morning Jack was coming down with the same stomach bug that Ella had earlier in the week. He's better today, so hopefully we'll be germ-free by Christmas!

Jack playing with his new play dough set from Grandpa Al.

Ella making Christmas cards for her teachers.

She said, "I'm really good at making 3's. Every time I make an "s" it turns into a "3"!"

Looking just like her big bro!

Fire chief Jack

Liz made him put his own shirt on. I guess he still needs some help.

Modeling her Christmas outfit.

Snuggles with Great Grandma K.

I lied. I had to include one car photo. This may be the best Christmas gift from Grandma Nee-ma!

Checking out his new loader from Aunt Annette.

Baby push-up contest!

Finley and Maeve in their matching outfits.

Great Grandma Norma and her great granddaughters. 

Can't wait to see these two together as they grow up!

Cousin kisses!

Grandpa Al soaking up the baby snuggles.

Jace sharing his new doctor kit with Ella, who needed to give her new puppy a check-up.

Brother/sister wrestling.

Jill, Adam, Ava, and Reid.

Kristin and Liz with their matching sweeties.

All of the gals.

Kristin, Jeff, Finley, and Jace.

The beginning of the hug marathon with Uncle Dan.

Hugs for Great Grandma Norma.

Hugs for Dad and Maeve.

Hugs for Great Grandpa Rich.

Hugs for Ava.

The picture prep for seven kids.

Not bad!

Grandpa Rich and Maeve.

Kristin and her sweet babies.

Ella helping Great Grandma open her gifts. And yes, that's a handmade crown taped to her forehead.

Maeve is bored.

Grandpa and Great Grandma with their grandkids.

It was a rough ride home for Jack.

Playing with new toys when we got home.

Farm time! Ella and Jack met their first calf. 

Feeding the animals. 

The cow wanted to pet Jack. 

Kitten time.