Island Christmas

This would be the first time our family has ever celebrated christmas in a tropical environment and not in the US or Canada.  I was excited to not be around the intense commercialism that spreads like a nasty disease at home and be able to focus on spending time with family.  About a month ago Ronan had mentioned that Christmas was his favorite holiday and proceeded to tell me why ( I of course immediately thought oh because of all the presents of course) - he pleasantly surprised me when he said because I get to see ALL of our family (sadly my sister Hopi, her husband Ed and the girls Sophia and Anna are not here this year).  It made my heart swell when Ronan shared how he felt and hope that the experience we have this year will only add to his thoughts and ideas of what Christmas is about.  I think I foresee having Christmas adventures in the future rather then the traditional ones - an opportunity for more memories of a lifetime.

we had a small tree in our apt. that was just perfect but Oma surprised the boys with a big live tree (they were super excited)

Christmas morning

patiently waiting for everyone to gather

I know it is blurry - but I could not pass up the natural happy smile

enjoying a surf magazine that came in his stocking

we enjoyed a Christmas potluck by the pool at our place with all our neighbors - this photo came out the most normal of the fam - it is a rarity to have all four of us in one - we also had to show off the boys Hawaiian shirts from Oma.

mooom - really??? we have things to do!!!

this would be the boys option of course.  I know my face is hiding under the hat - I had to cover up the salt filled hair from a quick ocean swim before we made all the food.

A thank you to all our family that made the big trip to come and spend the Holidays with us on the island.  It means a lot to us and we have really enjoyed Christmas and all the fun we have had together and will have in the days to come.  We will never forget our magical island Christmas - we love you and thank you!!!!