Warming Up to Santa

Addison met the nicest and most authentic Santa. Eventually she calmed down and we ended up with a pretty nice picture.

Finally

We received this outfit from Matt's Aunt Cathy and Uncle Charlie when Addison was very little, and I've been waiting anxiously for it to get cold and for it to fit... Well, the skirt is still big, but now that winter is here, I couldn't resist.

Thanksgiving

We traveled to Raleigh, NC to visit Matt's family. Our hosts (Ray & Beth a/k/a Mom and Dad or Grandpa and Grandma), were fabulous and spoiled us, as always. "Uncle" Taylor was there, and Addison got to meet his fiance', future "Auntie" Katherine for the first time. She also got to meet Matt's Grandmother and his Aunt Lee for the first time as well.

Our travels went relatively smoothly. Addison was a trouper - we got her ups at 3:45AM Thanksgiving morning, so we could drive to O'Hare to catch the first flight out for Raleigh. Surprisingly, she barely slept in the car and did not sleep at all on the plane. And when we arrived at her Grandparent's house, she had lunch and was ready to play... She finally took a nap, but still lost about 4 hours of sleep for the day and still seemed no worse for the wear! The trip home was similar, she hung in there and we made it home without incident. We just marvel at how "good" she is. We are very lucky!

Addison with her Grandpa Ray and Great Grandma Anne. The necklace became a favorite new-found toy.

Great-Aunt Lee, Great Grandma and Grandpa watching the "center of attention"
Addison discovers Jackson's bed

Finally- Thanksgiving dinner, with Jackson waiting for a treat

Grandma Beth watching the show

Addison uses Uncle Justin's hand-made tool box for a toy box

Grandpa teaches Addison about instruments

More laps, this time with a purse

Addison with Uncle Taylor and Auntie-to-be Katherine

And another new friend arrives

Aaron Jackson Trudell was born to Mandy and Shaun on Sunday, November 23rd. His emergency arrival was a little scary for his new mommy and daddy, but I'm happy to report everyone is doing well. (Phew!) Can't wait to meet you baby Aaron.