Well, we're back from a WONDERFUL time in Kansas visiting my family. I've got some great pics and a scintillating video to show you guys!
First of all the Kansas celebrations was a shower for us to celebrate baby Noah. We got a lot of great things and, more importantly, felt loved and cherished for this shower in the midst of all the busy-ness of Christmas.
First of all the Kansas celebrations was a shower for us to celebrate baby Noah. We got a lot of great things and, more importantly, felt loved and cherished for this shower in the midst of all the busy-ness of Christmas.
My favorite present dates back a bit...here it is! It's a giant giraffe for Noah's nursery. I have to tell you guys the story. When I was little my Grannie and I were walking around the Dallas Galleria waiting for my aunt and grandfather to get done at market (for their shop). I saw a HUGE giraffe that was also made by one of the most expensive toy makers at the time (anyone ever heard of Steiff). I've heard different versions of this part, but the giraffe was apparently anywhere between $800 and $4,000! I begged my Grannie for it, and I think that was the only time she ever told me no! Hearing it now, I feel really bad and selfish, but at the time I sure didn't know how much money it was or I never would have asked! So for this shower, the huge surprise was a huge giraffe for Noah's nursery! I love it and I can't wait until we can put him up and until Noah is big enough to name him!
It's really that tall! I think that it's got to be about 5 feet because it comes up to my shoulder, and I'm 5'6"! I am so pumped! Justin and I also got some other great gifts, including a man bag for Justin (thanks for the term, Seinfeld) and LOTS of cute clothes, as well as a Little People Noah's Ark!
Justin's Man Bag
Next was my dad's 60th birthday celebration. I've made a slide show for all these pics. It's hilarious, and, for the family, if you want any of these, email me and I'll send them to you!
And, here's the scintillating video I was telling you about. My uncle Tony is a great sport, so I don't think he'll mind this. He's my uncle by marriage, and he's married to my Aunt Kris (shown below). 
And, last but not least, a few pics of our Christmas celebration. There were some strange gifts and a lot of meaningful ones, too! Thanks to all our family for all the gifts, and I'm sure John is thankful for Kelley's, as well as Sara finally being able to accomplish her life's dream with her new Easy Bake Lab.
I hope you all had a great holiday, and pardon me for leaving the Christmas theme up for just a few more days!
-Rachel
In the pic: Charmoin, Alison, Brandy, Me, Carissa
