Christmas Tree

Last weekend we purchased a Christmas tree permit and set out to find our perfect tree. We had a lot of fun hiking and enjoying the beautiful weather. The dogs were happy to get out as well!
After a few hours we found our tree and Avery and I were a little sad to see it cut down. As the tree fell over Avery said, "Oh, sad! Mama upie". Meaning the tree wanted it's mama to pick it upie.
When we got home we decorated the tree right away. We had a lot of fun! It is our first real Christmas tree (Eric and I used to just decorated a house plant). I wish we could keep it up all year. It makes the house smell so nice and it just creates an overall warm and inviting feeling.
I'll post a picture of our tree as soon as we put the skirt on it that grandma Cindy is sending!

Little Avery ready for Christmas tree hunting!

Mama and Avery.

Papa and Avery.
Avery wants a turn with the saw!

Wait for us, papa!

Avery was having some difficulty walking in
her boots because they are a little too big for her.
Here, papa is lending her a hand.

I think Avery's favorite part was stomping on the ice.

We found our tree! Actually, after a few hours of
looking for the "perfect" little tree we finally said,
"here, how about that one?" And it was settled.
We were ready to go home by that time.
Here are papa and Avery by our tree.

Papa feeling manly after chopping down the tree.

Thanksgiving

We spent Thanksgiving with Grandma Sally Jo, Grandpa Gary, Aunt Karen, Uncle Paul, Cousins Katie, Caroline, and Alison, and Uncle Jesse, and Aunt Shelly. We also were able to spend time with our good friends Lindsey, Brian, and Joey.
One of our many outings during Thanksgiving break was a trip to the zoo. Avery especially loved the carousel.
Here are some photos from the day at the zoo. There is also video of Avery on the carousel which includes her cousins Katie and Caroline and Uncle Paul as well as Lindsey and Joey. Joey was not as thrilled to be on the carousel. Maybe after lunch and a good nap it would have been more enjoyable for the little guy.

Avery LOVED the carousel ride!

She had a hard time choosing between the lion and zebra.

She waved at everyone as she went by. Not sure what papa is doing.

She also enjoyed sitting on the swan.
I think this was her third time on the carousel?

Enjoying the penguins with Aunt Shelly.
The penguins were not as happy because their home was
being cleaned and all the water was drained out. They
were freezing!

Brian is always so much fun! He is spinning Avery
in her rented zoo wagon.