Baden turned six last week! He took his friends to the Bean Museum to see the reptile show. He was so excited to find a turtle of his own waiting for him at home, a gift from his Aunt Kelsey. Maybe this pet will last longer than our last!

Last night we went with Grandma Blick and Uncle Jason to ride the Heber Creeper, which at Christmas time turns into the Polar Express! The kids all wore their jammies and we sat sipping hot cocoa and eating cookies while waiting to see Santa. Just before he arrived, we read the story "The Polar Express" and the kids drew pictures with their fingers on the steamy windows. Santa finally came and handed out sleigh bells to all of the children. The elves told jokes and we all sang Christmas carols. The look on Gavin's face when he first spied Santa was magic. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa for this memorable experience! We love you!

I took this video of Baden three years ago. I thought he was so grown up at the time, but now as I watch it I am overwhelmed at how fast time goes by. The last few days I've had the Charles Dickens quote on my mind "I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach." Thank you Baden for being my first, for being patient with me while I learn how to be your mom, and for teaching me to live and love with enthusiasm. I love you!

Avery has learned to stand and crawl in the same week! If this seems strange to you, remember that she has been scooting around up until now! Nothing makes the boys giggle like their little sister crawling like a normal baby! I promised my mom that I would keep Avery from walking until her return from Africa (so she won't miss the big moment), but it will be a close call. Avery wants to walk - hurry home mom!

Last night Jeremy and our boys went to a Utah Jazz signing party! Coach Sloan and Carlos Boozer were nice enough to take some pictures with the kids!  They came home with two hats and a basketball filled with signatures!