December is Here...

It has become my tradition the day after Thanksgiving, to put up my Christmas decorations. As I pull out the stockings, lights, tree and ornaments, I listen to Frank Sinatra and Harry Connick, Jr. singing Christmas carols to set in the mood. This moment is like I am 5 all over again and anxiously turn over a new day on the advent calendar.

Andee found her favorite Christmas decoration who was just her size!

(She loved playing with her buddy, Santa.)

We have a snowman advent calendar and each day you get to put the numbered body part or clothing piece on the snowman. The first thing Trey did every morning in December was scurry into the living room to place another piece of the snowman and count down the days until Christmas. Brent and I also spent a Family Home Evening teaching Trey about the true meaning of Christmas, Jesus' birth. Trey enjoyed learning about the star and how baby Jesus was born in a stable. He also learned a song that I taught the primary called, "Baby in a Manger" by Sally Deford, which he sings all the time!

Notice Something Different?

Andee has been touched (okay, more like poked) with a little "BLING"! Look closely, Andee got her ears pierced! It was November 11, 2009 and we were on our way to the mall for some shopping when Brent and I brought up the idea of getting Andee's ears pierced. He said that we should just do it today, but I was a little hesitant. I knew I wanted to get her ears pierced when she was little, but I didn't know if I could have my sweet baby girl's ears poked. Brent talked me into it and I was a nervous wreck in the store. I made him hold her while they were pierced. Then I quickly took her after to soothe her cries. She only wailed for a minute or less and then was just fine... and beautified! :) She looks so cute with her earrings!!

Thanksgiving 2009

Brent's parents came down and stayed in Oro Valley, just north of us, for Thanksgiving. We went up to their condo for Thanksgiving dinner and enjoyed turkey dinner and his Dad's famous GRAVY! mmmm... makes me hungry just thinking about it! We enjoyed the peacefulness and relaxation. Then, Brent decided to go out with his parents on Black Friday. He was able to do almost all of our Christmas shopping at 3:00 am and did it all for about $200. Way to go Brent! Glad it was you, not me staying up all night! :)

Cheerleader in the making! :)

Andee enjoying her "bumbo" that Nana bought for her.

I am so thankful for my children and the completeness they bring to my life. I understand why it is so important to have family and how fulfilling it is to be a parent. Through the rough days and wonderful days, I smile each time I think about my children. I love them so much! I am also so blessed to have a wonderful and caring husband! He is an amazing father and brings so much happiness to our marriage and family! This Thanksgiving I reflected on all that I am grateful for and to bring another baby into our family this year has been the icing on the cake! It has been amazing to see Trey become a brother and be so sweet and supportive of his baby sis. How lucky I am, and grateful to Heavenly Father for giving me my sweet family.

Andelyn Bree, 5 months

Tried to take some pictures... I definitely need to take a photography class and I don't have the best lighting in my house... but what can you do!

-November 2009, 5 months old

"Official Soccer Mom"

Trey's first soccer practice - November 11, 2009

I wasn't sure how Trey was going to do, being one of the youngest on his team which ages range from 4-6. I think he is the only 4 year old. But he listened so well to Coach Matt and did every drill with precision. (maybe not with incredible speed, but very accurate) :) I had another proud but very surreal moment... as I am now a SOCCER MOM!

Team Cheer - Goooo.... Blue Storm Troopers!

First Game - This picture sums it all up! (no clue what to do!)

But what do you expect after only one practice. He did great! And now, is a pro! It helps that the coach puts a stuffed animal monkey on their goal so they know where to kick the ball! :)

I was so proud!

Hurray! We Won!!

Friends Rodolpho and Roberto are on the team! (Rodolpho below)

The Fair

Trey loved the huge fair that comes every year to Tucson. Unfortunately, it doesn't come until spring, but he was in luck because they had a "mini" one at the mall. We took advantage of the nice weather here in Tucson and went out for some rides & games! -November 7, 2009

Trey loved the Fun Houses, except when he ran head first into one of the many mirrors. We were laughing so hard as the bang could be heard for miles! (Don't worry, he was fine). But it was a classic "Funniest Home Video" moment!

Trey was a bit nervous of the spinning room, but Dad showed him how cool it could be to hold himself up and let it spin him!

Andee LOVED all the lights and excitement!

Mom's Favorite - the Carousel!

For some reason, Trey covered his ears the entire train ride! He had a big smile, but closed ears.

Look at what "My Won!!!!"

Trey's Preschool Pictures

My Little Boy is All Grown Up!

I decided to just buy the class pic and take a few pictures of my own for his "picture day". I think they turned out cute! He is such a handsome devil! (biased of course)

He is learning so many things and soaks it all in like a sponge. I am so proud of his imagination and his ability to take direction from his teacher. I am blessed to have him in my life!