Christmas 2012

It was our first Christmas as a bustling little family. Matthew began crawling even more -- and his mobility got him to the tree, but thankfully he wasn't very interested in pulling at ornaments or any of our decorations. He was fascinated, however with our rocking reindeer that sings "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer."

The wrapping paper and his new 3-in-1 Zebra scooter/walker toy were an absolute hit. We enjoyed spending time with my parents and relaxing in the quiet moments of the holidays. Here are a few photo highlights:

We're so blessed to have so many wonderful friends and family in our lives! Happy holidays everyone -- here's to a great New Year ahead!

Visiting with Santa

On Sunday, we took Matthew to see Santa, and he did amazingly well for his first Santa trip. (Especially since he didn't have much of a nap, and woke up just before we walked into the mall!) He did give Santa's beard a little tug (or two or three), but Santa simply chuckled and wished him well. All in all, it was a positive experience, and we look forward to more milestones this first Christmas season with Matthew.

"What's this on your face, Santa?"

Smiling for the camera with Santa.

We've decked the halls for the season -- maybe we went a little too far with dressing Matthew up as a Christmas tree too? Nah...

Our little elf is ready for the season!

9 Months Old!

Today marks nine months that Matthew has been in our world. I can't believe how quickly time has gone by! It has been a blessing to watch our son learn and grow. And my how he has grown:

Every day, it seems that our son is learning or doing something different. Recently, he's been engaging with us -- babbling away, and playing contentedly with his toys. He's getting more and more mobile too, scooting around the floor on his bottom or rolling over until he gets what he wants. Standing while holding onto us or furniture has become more prevalent as well. What fun to see our son grow before our eyes!