meeting santa.

Merry Christmas Eve!

It's about time we are getting in the spirit over here at Lancaster. Never late than never, right? It's been hard seeing that we are still so unsettled, we weren't able to get a Christmas tree, and I have not been feeling very well. I did manage to put a mini tree up on our entry table, a live wreath on the inside of our door (for the smell, of course), and put wreaths up on the windows outside. And, of course, all of our lovely Christmas cards from friends and family are on display and spreading the love! 

We also managed to take Brooks to see Santa on Saturday. John and I thought that he was going to have a complete meltdown when I handed him over to Father Christmas, but the little tike shocked us and put on the cutest show in town. 

He just couldn't contain his excitement!

My heart pretty much melted when Brooks and Santa got a good look at each other. It's like Brooks was thinking, "You really do exist, Ho Ho!" 

Magical. 

survived.

Well, I am officially down for the count with a stomach bug. Christmas bummer. The good news is, John and Brooks are still feeling 100% (minus a fuss or ten...Brooks, not John) so they are holding down the fort for me. Alas, I have a minute or two to post.

While I still haven't taken Brooks' one year pics for his twelve month update, we did go to the doctor for his well check-up.

We survived a year (!) and our boy is healthy and thriving. We are beyond thankful.

Brooks is weighing in at 21 pounds 8 ounces (26th percentile) and is 28 inches in length (5th percentile). His head circumference is 45.1 centimeters (14th percentile). Short and chunky, just the way I like them. Babies that is.

Unfortunately the little nugget had to get four shots—the MMR, Varivax, Prevnar, and flu (#1) vaccines. I have never in my life seen something so pitiful. They hurt, and they hurt baaaaaad. Brooks stopped breathing, turned bright red, and was shaking he was crying so hard. Luckily, as soon as I picked him up, handed him his lovey and got the paci to stay in his mouth, all was well with the world.

 I have a feeling he won't be nearly as jolly to see the nurse when we go for flu (#2) vaccine in three weeks...

first birthday party.

On Saturday, December 14th at 3:00 in the afternoon we, along with our dearest friends and family, celebrated our Brooks' first birthday. Our ONE YEAR OLD. I was quite emotional on his actual birthday to say the least. Although it has only been one year, there are so many sweet memories to recount and relive. And they all washed over me at once. I also think that I was feeling a bit guilty about leaving Brooks with his Shug all day, from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. But, in our hearts, Saturday was our day to honor little B.

We were hanging drapes, unpacking boxes, making grocery runs, and decorating for the party just mere minutes before guests arrived. I honestly could not have done it without the help of my parents and brother Andrew, John's parents, Lea...and, of course, John. These people make my world go round.

Luckily, Brooks took a long afternoon nap, so come 3:00 he was ready to party! And that he did.

He had so much fun playing with his little friends, being loved on by grandparents, and indulging in yummy cake for the first time (Warning: I got a tad bit picture happy)!

We are so incredibly thankful for the friends and family that were able to make it, those who weren't, but sent Brooks lots of love on his big day, and for all of the thoughtful gifts for our little one. It is such a blessing having those you love, love your child almost as much as you do. What an amazing circle we have surrounding our family.

We surely enjoyed every second of Brooks' birthday party and I believe he did too. What tot wouldn't love being surrounded by big colorful balloons and tons of toys for a day?!

Happy 1st Birthday, my little love. You sure are adored.