christmas on the big island

We traveled to the Big Island for Christmas this year and had a great time. We were prepared for freezing weather and packed heavy, warm clothing, which took up a lot of suitcase space, but it turned out to be a lot warmer than we thought most of the days. Which is weird, because our summer trips over there were pretty dang cold. Tristan got a lot of attention from the family, being that he was the only kid there to spoil. All of this attention sort of escalated his terrible twos and he became pretty rotten. Mostly to his parents. Mostly his mom. But to everyone else he was a little angel.

Christmas is so much fun with kids. I think that Tristan sort of understood what was going on. He knew that the "maykismas" tree was something special, and off limits. It had so many "maykismas" presents under it that he wasn't allowed to touch until that one morning, when we finally let him rip them all open. How confusing for him. He pointed to all the "maykismas" lights hanging all over town. And he figured out quickly what the (nut) "cracker" was, and pointed him out everywhere. My attempt to teach him that it was Jesus' birthday failed, but I think he will be able to grasp that a little more next year.

Below are just a few pictures from Christmas eve and day.

Tristan enjoyed spinning on the swivel chair with Aunt Coco, an activity he forced many into participating in. "Push!" was a new word he learned on this trip. So demanding but it's hard to say no to his cute face.

Family photo by the perfectly proportioned Christmas tree.

Christmas eve dinner (with only half of the gang in the photo), consisted of "Christian's Roast". Yum yum!

Christmas morning, Tristan anxiously awaits to see what all of this stocking hype was all about.

He was not disappointed, especially with the goldfish find.

And his NASA space shuttle.

And fruit leather.

Before jumping into all of our presents, we decided to hit the beach early to beat the crowds and also to wait until Uncle Jim flew in that afternoon. At Hapuna Beach Tristan showed off his rock climbing skills.

Warning, do not ever mess with his sand castle.

Visiting with the Lindseys.

Later that evening, Tristan played Christmas tunes on the piano to bring in the holiday spirit.

Mom was thrilled with the new Gabba cd! :)

Checking out his new tunnel.
Was great to relax and be with family! Thanks for having us and Happy Birthday to Jesus!

More BI pictures to come!