Christmas Eve

With the time change in Russia, we had a 36 hour Christmas Eve!  Unfortunately, fourteen of those hours were spent on an airplane.  As long and trying as the flight was, we were blessed to have the front row seat in coach with a bassinet.  :)  So it could have been so. much. worse.  Ella slept for about two hours, cried for about two hours, and we spent the rest of the flight trying to feed and entertain her.  Did I mention it was a long flight?  ;)  We survived though...  I feel like we deserve a t-shirt or something!

My mom met us at the airport because she just couldn't wait another day to meet her!!

I couldn't believe that after such a long flight (and the fact that it was 2 in the morning in Russia), Ella still had smiles and giggles for her Grammy.  Sweet girl.  :)

Grammy brought Ella a welcome home balloon, a baby doll, a bell, bubbles, the Christmas outfit she is wearing, and a blanket that she spent months knitting.  Ella loved them all.

We were a little worried how Ella would do in a car seat, since she has never been in one before.  She was asleep in less than five minutes!  Interestingly enough, she has fallen asleep within five minutes every time we have put her in it since!

Up and ready to meet everyone!

I love the expressions on everyone's faces in this picture.  Adam's dad texted me a few minutes before we arrived to tell me he was literally pacing at the door.

Ella and Jacob.  Love at first sight.

 

Gavin meeting his sister for the first time!

Ella definitely got lots of hugs, kisses, and cuddles on Christmas Eve!

Uncle Peter and Aunt Melisa

Ella with Aunt Marlys

All of the cousins were beyond excited to dance with Santa again!

Ella and cousin Olivia (overjoyed that there is another girl to play with!)

Taking care of their baby sister already ;)

Time to open presents!

Flashlights from Aunt Melisa and Uncle Peter

Best Christmas present EVER.