Well, we got you all dolled up in your pretty holiday dress and talked all the way to the mall about how excited we were to see Santa.  Even in the line you were ready to tell him that you wanted a bike.  Then it was our turn…and the outcome was the same as in year’s past….your cried…A LOT.  But you are a strong little girl…you can squirm with the best of them.  Last year, Santa kept commenting on how strong you were (you were 2) and this year he kept yelling “HURRY UP!” at the picture taker.  We ended up discussing the fact that you never got to tell Santa what you wanted for Xmas!  So we got back in line…and did it all over again!  It was an improvement – there were no visible tears but you were in no way, shape, or form enjoying yourself!  But mommy & daddy were happy because we got a picture of you and Brady together with Santa…and we were able to let him know you wanted a bike for Christmas!  Success!

Luli and Papaw came in town this weekend for an early Christmas – since Luli has to work on the holiday.  Friday night we went to Interlochen and looked at Xmas lights, we had a delicious and fun turkey dinner Saturday night, and this morning we woke up early and headed to Rainforest Cafe for breakfast with Santa!  You were a bit intimidated by all the moving (fake) animals at first…but you did a great job of being brave and ended up really enjoying the experience.

We had a buffet breakfast and then got to go take pictures with Santa…and guess what?!?!?!  You didn’t cry!!!  Afterwards, we continued our annual Build-a-Bear tradition.  You got an Elephant (Ollie) and Brady got a Giraffe (George).  Elephants are daddy’s favorite animal!  Luli and Papaw even got you a super cute elephant cup to match Ollie!  We had a wonderful time and they were so glad to have shared the experience with us.