SANTA!

This first picture was taken at my parents house, when Ivy got a first glimpse of Santa before the main event at Sally's house last Thursday! She studied Santa very carefully, but didn't cry or laugh... I'm glad we did a run through!

The Randolph Christmas party was fun! Ivy was only one of a few babies there- next year she'll be right in the mix of kids waiting to hop up on Santa's knee!

It was a really fun night-- such a difference from last year. I can't believe how our lives have changed!

Happy Holidays!

I had to take advantage of the fall foliage one last time and take some posed pictures outside! The weather here has been gorgeous in the middle of the afternoons- perfect for hanging out in the back yard!

Ivy's first Thanksgiving was fun! My parents came over for dinner- above you can see Ivy's place card... oh how long we waited to see that at our table! So much to be thankful for!

I made her some brussel sprouts and carrots for her dinner- she's liking food alot! I think oatmeal is her favorite- but she'll eat anything we give her pretty much.

On Friday, we headed up to Apple Hill to pick out a Christmas tree for baby's first Christmas! We think the tree is the prettiest one we've ever chosen. Brian insisted on colorful lights this year, because he thought Ivy would like to look at them-- so we have colorful lights inside and out! I have to admit I like the way it looks. People say that Christmas is totally different with kids- and so far I'd say that's pretty acurate. Normally I've got a lot of handmade gifts for everyone in the works- but this year I'm kind of focused on the baby! We bought her a chair that she'll get for Christmas-- so cute- its a club chair made of "leatherette" and it matches out couch! We can all hang out in the living room and read together!

Last week we had our 3rd visit of 4 with our social worker to complete the requirements for Ivy's adoption. We are such proud parents showing Melissa all the new things Ivy can do since last month-- lots of sitting, moving around on her blanket, playing with her toys, vocalizing, etc. It's pretty clear that she is teething in earnest- I simply can't believe there isn't a tooth popping through yet. We feel bad for the little scamp- it must hurt her, but she remains her sweet natured self through it all.

Next week is our neighborhood visit with Santa... we'll see if she freaks out like a lot of other babies do!