Christmas or "Natale" is big here in the lap of catholicism (go figure). They don't party as hard as the Americans do, but then again, who does? (and why should anyone want to?) and they take the day after off for some sort of immaculate feast or something or other (All's I know is the grocery store was closed for 2 days). It is a fun time to be here though. There is lots going on in the city and people are in pretty good spirits. I just wish I could find some egg nog. We are working on some traditions, so we decided our thing is going to be a big Christmas brunch where we eat, drink mimosas and open presents. I made some home style potatoes and onions, french toast with apple compote and smoked omelettes with scamorza and pancetta. then we opened the presents and joy ensued.
Reuniting with the stocking dog
I call it "Jiggle baby" because it giggles and jiggles
She was pretty good at opening her own presents
She made it clear that no help was needed
Who doesn't love a pink rubber duckie?
See and Say. Classic.
That's pure joy right there, soak it up.
She loves her stuffed doggie too!
For realsies? How cute can you get?
She even took the initiative to clean up the wrapping paper
Later, we went to the Pope's house
See the tiny window with the banner hanging from it? That's-a the Pope-a!
The big tree at Piazza Navona
Adorable little bear
Fierce gaze from the carousel
Funtimes with Mommy!
We pushed a little girl off the horse to take that picture (Take that, Italy!)
Befana, the Christmas Witch. (I have no idea, it's an Italian thing)
What does this have to do with Christmas? No idea. Is it bad ass? Yes, yes it is.
Strolling with Daddoo
Me n my Ewok.
2014, that's a wrap. See you all next year!