Merry Christmas! We had a great visit up to see David's family. We were worried about the drive up there since Noah hates his car seat, but it wasn't too bad. He got all kinds of great toys and books for Christmas. Here he is in a Texas Longhorn towel after a bath. (We're pretty sure it's the bath he's screaming about, not the towel.)



We also think that he's recently gone through a growth spurt. And just in this last week he has really begun to notice his surroundings more and be captivated by them. He enjoys (for short intervals) looking at the lights on the Christmas tree, the mobile in his crib and the mirror on his swing. It's such a joy to see the world come alive to him.

Here are some more Christmas pics.

Noah has started to smile at us! This morning we were singing Christmas carols and he was full of smiles, so I thought I'd share.

We are quickly learning that just when we think we have settled into a predictable routine with Noah, he changes everything on us. We have a great day with him where he sleeps alot, and then he is up all night.

So we are learning to be flexible and appreciate the quiet times! He continues to do well, and is really starting to notice the world around him. He loves looking at the Christmas tree lights, and mobiles of all kind keep his attention.

This past sunday we had a Christmas get together with some friends from Church. He was a happy camper all day, and here he is with our friend Robin.

We finally feel that we are falling into something of a routine with Noah and are getting to know him better each day. This past weekend we had a great visit with David's mom, Elaine. She was a big help in putting up Christmas decorations, cleaning the house and doing some cooking for us. And as with Katie's parents, she had the golden touch with getting Noah to sleep!