Christmas in Utah

December sped by! (probably because I spent half of the month in Utah)  I flew out alone on the 16th.  Madeleine did pretty well on the flight and even fell asleep for an hour or so.  It was way past her bedtime so I imagine that factor helped her fall asleep.  She is definitely a hand full in an airport though.  She ran and ran around the airport lounge for an hour straight.  Needless to say, I was extremely exhausted by the time we made it to Brody's mom's house.

We spent a few low key days in Farmington.  I baked tons and made Christmas treats for Julie to deliver to neighbors and coworkers.  Madeleine had a great time chasing the dogs and poking the cat.  She also loved all of the new toys and surroundings in Glam ma's house.  She slept so well at Julies and loved spending time with Uncle Cache. Brody arrived the night of a snow storm (quite delayed, but safe) and our days got much more eventful!

I was very proud of my chocolate covered marshmallows that I made for Julie to give as Christmas presents

On the agenda was: visiting Santa (she was not too happy about it, but warmed up by the second picture with her cousin, Addy), an early Christmas with the Cartwrights, family Christmas parties, movie and dinner dates, viewing Christmas lights and lunch with my coworkers.

At the Christmas Carol with James and his cute date

On Christmas Eve, we switched homes and headed to Brody's dad's. We started our time off there with a special dinner at Tepanyaki.  Madeleine loved the live chef and watching her dad and grandpa catch shrimp in their mouths.  On Christmas morning, M was spoiled beyond belief!  She received her very own couch, a rocking dragon and a doll house along with tons of clothes and other toys.  (this is after she was spoiled by her other grandma with tons of toys and clothes as well)  What a lucky baby! Brody and I were also spoiled by both sets of parents.  We are all pretty lucky when it comes to Christmas.

All the girls at Christmas Eve dinner

Making Christmas cookies with Aunt Karissa

She loved ripping bows off of presents, sitting on them and tearing them open!

In the days after Christmas, we were able to spend time with lots of friends.  We shopped, ate out and had many date nights without the baby.  We even made it to the temple one morning!! We also hit the slopes for the first time this year! I haven't skied since I was pregnant so I was extra excited.

I think this was our best trip to Utah yet. Madeleine was such a good baby the whole time and made everyone laugh and fall in love with her cute and expressive faces and funny behavior.  She slept great at night so I had energy and could enjoy all our activities.  We are grateful to have such great family that made it possible for us to visit and who love M so much! They really are the best grandparents/aunt and uncles that we could ask for!

With one of her many presents at Brody's mom's house