It's Beginning to Look A lot Like Christmas!

First of all, Merry Christmas everyone! We have been so busy over here at the Baetz house with finals, shopping, school, parties, and birthdays. The kids absolutely loved putting the Christmas tree up! It was Avery's first real time to be able to hang ornaments and stuff, so they had a lot of fun. I am happy to say that most of the presents have endured the kids and pets, although, we've had a few casualties. (Like Avery taking it upon herself to open some- thankfully her's, or the dog jumping on the window when the UPS guy comes crushing them with his mighty paws- which happens a lot here, or when the cat decides a different present is comfier than the one he found last night to lay on...)

We had our first "snow". Which Hunter was so disappointed that school wasn't cancelled! And it only lasted a few hours. But it sure was pretty and put us right in the Holiday spirit.

 We had our first company Holiday party with Cody's work. It was a lot of fun. We look forward to many, many more parties with "Hunter Heat & Air" and are so blessed to be a part of such a wonderful company. 

 Avery just keeps growing and growing (I know, I know, they're supposed to do that!) But I wasn't prepared *and still am not* for her turning two this month. It's gone by so fast! It's amazing how much more she absorbs and can say now. 

 We celebrated her 2nd birthday by having a little "cowgirl" themed party. We had a horse for all the kiddos to ride (and some of the adults), we decorated cowboy/cowgirl hats, and ate delicious snacks & cake. She LOVED riding the "neigh- neigh" and still talks about it. She got her first pair of cowgirl boots for her birthday from her great-grandma among many other presents: baby dolls, stuffed animals, and horses. 

 We sneaked away for a family picture. This is what was sent in our Christmas card this year. 

 But the highlight of December-in my opinion- has to be the kids' picture with Santa this year. It was pretty funny. On the way there, we had a blow out, fixed the tire, and still made it to see Santa. I made sure to keep telling Avery who he was and what he brings good little girls. Once we got to the mall, we watched other kids sit with Santa. Once it was our turn, I told Hunter to keep smiling no matter what Avery did. And he did just that. She was not having it. But it sure does make for good memories. Now, anytime the word "Santa" comes up, she says, "No, no, Santa!"... Let's just hope next year won't be as traumatic. 

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas Holiday! I will try to update sooner than later.

-Meagan