Anyone seen a Giraffe?

Photographs taken today, December 30th, 2011.  We love you Holden.

Play Time

Holden playing at his toyset, while papa takes photos and mama is cooking a beautiful dinner in the kitchen.  And in the photos is his avocado shaker he doesn't know what to do with- the one he may use in the band he doesn't have yet.  Ha-ha.

XMAS Outtakes

Just a few more from XMAS day itself.  However, there isn't any of Holden opening presents, because at 5 months old we didn't wrap any for him.  We just placed them under the tree.  Definitely next year, though.  For Sure.  We love you Holden!

Christmas Day (and Night)

First it was Xmas at the house.  Then it was a drive to Tuolomnee Meadows to ice skate on the frozen Tenaya Lake- such a lucky experience to have on Holden's first Christmas, we couldn't (Tioga) pass up the opportunity.  Then it was off to the last performance of Bracebridge, and retiring our Forest Folk costume's for the year.  Then it was bed, after a well traveled day.  Happy Holidays everyone.

The Dowling Christmas Photo Album

We were blessed to have Laura's parents in town for a few days before Christmas and they were able to see Holden perform in the Bracebridge Dinner on December 20th.  And we were able to take some family photos.  Enjoy.

Family Christmas Photo Album

We were lucky today with a visit by Grandpa Renspie and Great-Grandma and Grandpa Winegar.  They are on a whirlwind tour of visiting family in Arizona and California, having left the midwest just a few days before.  After dinner, we were able to sit down and take some 4-Generation family photos for the first time ever.  Holden was so excited and loved having everyone visit his house and play with him.  And he hopes it happens again soon. 

Holden's Getting Good...

at trying to make raspberries.  And wearing glow in the dark star suit onesie's.  And being in the picture twice.  Enjoy.

The Lead Up to Bracebridge...

In the top photo we have Holden on the walk to the Ahwahnee Hotel as we go to get fitted for the Bracebridge Dinner.  It was around 3pm and the winter sun was a nice golden color through the trees and across the ground- numerous times we stopped in the gold light to take snapshots.   As always, the  mother and child looked most happy.  Then the bottom snapshot is of Holden taking his weekly bath the night before the big event.  He wants to get ready.  He is going to be clean and smile during his big debut as the Baby Who Gets Sung To at Bracebridge.  He can't wait.  And we can't wait either for the magical and special night to happen.  Its a one off, and we are aware of the importance in life.

Playmat Sunday

Its Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

Pictures with Santa at the Village Store, and our first attempt at making a X-Mas card in front of the Ahwahnee tree in the hotel.

The Giraffe and other Stuff

Some recent photos over the past couple of days.  Holden always gets what he wants.

Golden Afternoons

A Sunday walk over to the Ahwahnee and back.  A beautiful, warm fall day.