Ethan’s absence was especially felt last Christmas. Christmas is such a special time for children, and because the time of our going to get Ethan was so close, we decided that in order for us (Randy and I) to survive the holiday, we would celebrate Christmas when Ethan was home with us.

So, we left the Christmas tree up, and we bought Ethan a special gift. The gift waited under the tree for Ethan’s arrival.

Yesterday my mom and step-dad came over and we celebrated Christmas. We had dinner together, we lit the tree, and Ethan opened his first gifts, with a little help from “mom” and “dad.” Ethan certainly didn’t need any help, though, playing with his new toys!

Yesterday also happened to be my mom’s birthday, but it kind of took a back seat. After my mom and step-dad left, I said to Randy, “We didn’t even take a picture of Mom, did we?” I doubt Mom thought much about it. She’s just happy to be “Grandma.”

We’re glad we waited, that we chose to celebrate Christmas in February!