The Toy Box Overfloweth!

Christmas this year was so much fun. Jenna actually got the hang of opening presents, after about 100 or so that she received from friends and family, :-) Well, it seemed like that many. She received gifts in Indiana before we left for Ohio, then again on Christmas Eve, more gifts on Christmas Day, then again on the 29th when we returned home. And finally her last gifts were opened on New Year's Eve, which was when Kelly and I celebrated Christmas with WaPa. It was great. In fact, she received so many gifts that Kelly and I held some back from us so she will have new toys to play with in a few months. We didn't want her too overwhelmed since she just got toys for her birthday, too. Many thanks to all who blessed us with their warm wishes, visits and of course, gifts. It was a wonderful feeling to see so many people once again surround us with their love.
As I am sure you all know, Kelly was able to come home for Christmas. He was always planning on coming home, but at the last minute we weren't sure if he would make it. (there were issues with his duty). But, he did make it home to Indiana as well as home with me to Ohio where we even had some snow. That was the best Christmas gift of all. Kelly, not that snow.
Jenna recognized him right away and went to him willingly immediately this time. I am sure he loved that. She also said, "Dada" lots this time and really seemed to know what that meant. Kelly also helped me out A LOT!! He not only did all of his chores while he was home (I always have to list for him since he is gone so much) but he also jumped in and took Jenna from me several times to give me some time to visit with family, or just read my book. That is one of the many things that are difficult when he is gone so much, then back for such a short time. He knows I CAN do it myself, and I am so used to doing it myself, that it becomes almost a chore for both of us to let the other person help out. Afterall, he doesn't know our routine, so I almost have to give him a step by step before he can do anything. (Her clothes are in this drawer, the bottles are kept here now, etc) And if any of you know me, you know that I am a little particular so I like things done a specific way. (I know hard to believe). Anyways, I wanted to give Kelly public praise for just taking charge and stepping in and helping without being asked. He sat and fed her at my step mother's house so I could eat. He walked her up and down the halls at my dad's nursing home, so I could visit. He chased her all around my mom's house to give me as much of a break as he could. He even took Jenna for a car ride (of course, to Starbucks) when she needed a nap. It was well appreciated.
Kelly and I did get one afternoon together before he left. Jenna went to the sitter for the day on the 31st. We took that opportunity to head into town for a small lunch together. Nothing fancy, but we did have a few minutes to talk without worrying about Jenna. I know many of you offered to watch her in the evenings for us, but it is always hard to decide if we should go to dinner, or if Kelly should spend the time with Jenna. He always opts for the latter, and I can't blame him. So, thanks for the offers. It is appreciated. We WILL take you up on it some day.
Now, the long haul. Kelly won't be back until Spring break which is the end of March. I don't even want to think about how long that is. I know Jenna and I will both miss him. She has already walked around the house several times calling for him. How do you explain it to her? Of course, you don't. At least he is stateside.

Hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!