2013, here we come!

Ethan's Poh Poh made that stocking!

Hello everyone,

I know it's been a little while since I've posted so forgive me. It's been a hectic turnover from 2012 to the New Year as Craig, Ethan and myself spent time with our respective families. Mid December, we drove down to Coffs Harbour to see Ethan's Nan and Pa. Ethan was a little trooper and only started to whinge towards the end of the drive but hey, who wouldn't after being stuck in a capsule for a four-hour drive? I'm just glad our Mazda 3 has decent AC on that hot December day. Luckily, we were able to make the necessary stops to give both ourselves and Bub a break and a much-needed chance to stretch our legs. Upon arrival at Coffs, his whinges immediately transformed into his trademark grin as he met his Nan and Pa for the first time. His Nan was especially delighted by her first grandchild!

Ethan was fascinated by the family dogs, especially by their wagging tails! I think this only further cemented Craig's desire to get a pet labrador. Ethan also began using his hands which probably entertained me more than it did him. It's amazing as a baby clumsily discovers their hands for the first time. And the speed at which his hand coordination has improved during the last 3 weeks is just as remarkable! The human body is a crazy thing.

Ethan with his beloved Poh Poh

Before we knew it, the long weekend at Coffs was over and it was time to come home. While it was sad to say goodbye to Nan and Pa, the next day, his Poh Poh (his chinese grandmother) and Ah Yees (Aunties) and Ah Fu (Uncle) arrived to join us for our first Christmas. Every christmas, Craig and I have always gone our seperate ways to spend time with our respective families. This year, Ethan has paved the way to a new family tradition as we'll now alternate x-mases and holidays. So for me, this Christmas was extra special as I got to spend it with both my boys and my family.

Christmas Day was lots of fun as Ethan was spoiled by "Santa". We helped him open his presents from family and friends and like any other typical kid, Ethan was far more excited by the wrapping paper than the actual present! At least he'll be cheap to satisfy. We feasted on my Mum's delicious turkey / ham dinner and made it through the festivities, despite the sweltering summer heat. These days, Ethan hangs out mostly in singlets and his nappy.

New Years Eve was especially uneventful as we're now well and truly cemented in the family routine of putting Ethan to bed by 8pm. You think we would be partying it up after he crashes but sadly, neither Craig and I can rarely last past 10pm. Looking after him is exhausting! We do suspect we're entering the next challenge of kid-raising... Teething. Ethan has been gnawing at his hands like it's the only thing he's allowed to eat. Oh well, I'll keep reminding myself that the sleepless nights will be paid back in smiles of baby teeth! Wish us luck.

Yours truly,
Demi, Craig and Mr E.