November was filled with sleepy newborn snuggles and adjusting to being a mama of two. My mom stayed with us for a few days after Gracies delivery. It was so nice having her there so Ben could go back to work and my mom could help cook, clean and play with Aubree. I almost felt guilty she was there because I was doing so much better recovering from Gracies birth then I did with Aubrees. The adjustment from one child to two was pretty smooth for us. Aubree became pretty much a daddy's girl when he came home from work but during the day she is so helpful and sweet to her baby sis. I couldn't be more grateful. Thanksgiving came and we celebrated at Steve and Michelles. It was nice to celebrate our first holiday as a family of four close to home. It was a beautiful day. The first month of Gracies life was absolutely wonderful. She jumped up to 11lbs 9oz and 22 inches long. She started sleeping through the night and I couldn't believe it. December came so quickly and I decided to take the girls to Safford to be with my family for the 5 year anniversary of Dylans death. We got to watch Brooklyn dance in the live nativity at the temple. They slept the whole way there and the whole way back. They are such good little travelers. I love it. The rest of the month of December was filled with baking, crafts and lots of Christmas movies. We got to go watch our friend Careisses little boys ice skating performance. Aubree loved it and has pretended to ice skate in her socks on the tile ever since. It's the cutest thing. We took the girls to see Santa at Bass Pro thinking maybe Aubree wouldn't cry this year but she sure did. Maybe next year... We decorated gingerbread houses with Sarah, Austin and Ava and I'm pretty sure the adults enjoyed that more then the kids. Last but not least we went to look at the temple lights. Its one of my favorite traditions. Aubree talked about was seeing the baby Jesus the whole time we were there. It is so neat to watch her enjoy it each year. Christmas morning came and Aubree loved all her gifts from Santa and mom and dad. Then we went to Steve and Michelles to open presents. Aubree was spoiled rotten. She didn't know what to do with all her toys. I think she was most excited about her Frozen bike and helmet. Now if only she could figure out how to ride it! After all that we loaded up the car and drove to Safford to spend the weekend with my family. We had dinner at my Nanas house that evening and the next day had a Christmas party at my parents house for my mom's side of the family. It was fun visiting with everyone and enjoying time with my family. We came home for New Years and celebrated with Austin, Sarah and Ava. Overall it was a great end to the year. Gracie has been the perfect addition to our little family and I have loved watching Aubree become this big helper. She was truly meant to join our family first. My heart is so full. ♡
