Tucson

MLK weekend found us down in Tucson with Mom and Dad celebrating Christmas. I have to say, we're getting used to the idea of Santa hats on cactus! Mom and Dad had their new trailer all decorated, complete with a tree. Bryce wasn't able to join us in person but thanks to technology and Skype, we were all able to open gifts together!

We were able to spend 4 days down at "the farm". This year we were all a little sick and spent the days just hanging out. I got a very special treat as one of the borders has 2 Friesians who are absolutely beautiful (the big horses that are in the mid-evil time period movies) and offered to let me ride one. It was amazing and I definitely felt like I could storm a castle!

We had a potluck get together with all the campers. Cassidy met another little girl who likes grapes and tomatoes as much as her!

3 Generations....I love the smiles!

Of course we got to go for a wagon ride, which Cassidy asked for! I rode Gidget so she wouldn't be left behind.

When we got back from the wagon ride, Cass wasn't quite done and wanted to ride more so up she went on Gidget. Gidget wasn't too impressed though....this is why I won't own a mule!

The next day, Cassidy asked to go for another ride and Gidget was a little more willing. Cassidy rode for 1/2 an hour by herself!!! She wore out two side walkers, Grandma and Dad. I'm so proud!

The rest of the time was spent hanging around camp and the new, very spacious trailer. Cassidy had lots to keep her busy.

Check out the hands in the pockets....Definitely Grandpa's girl!

Thanks Grandma and Grandpa and Mule Power Farms for a great trip!

Thanks Grandma!

Stickers....the gift that keeps on giving, even after they've been stuck on paper and on tummies! Thanks Grandma Margie, they sure are fun!

Meeting the Icelandics

During our break last week Cass and I went up to our friend Laura's family's farm to ride the Icelandic ponies...I mean horses that Laura has been telling us about. I was doubtful of her raves, but I have to admit they are a lot of horse in a little body and not at all what I was expecting. Laura and I were able to get in two long rides and I was amazed by their incredibly smooth gates and their ability to move out on the trail. Cassidy felt very comfortable on the broad back as well. In between our rides, she rode bareback for about 15 minutes with me just walking alongside and then not ready to get down, rode another 15 minutes before saying all done. I think she might have been a little cold though, and inside with Laura's wonderful mother-in-law was a piano and cats...a tough combo to be away from for too long.

The little grey is the horse that Laura is bringing home. His name is Loxy and is 5 years old. I got to ride him on our second ride and he is coming along really well. It's going to be really fun riding together, especially seeing the little draft horse next to Tucker the big draft horse. Oh the places we'll go!

Christmas

We were able to spread Christmas out through the whole week this year, starting and ending at our home.

I've gotten pretty good with taking pics of just Cassidy, but obviously I have a little more work to do to get pets and kids! Here's my best efforts to get all our kids under the tree.

We did get a good family pic though...

We also went down to the lights of Christmas in a neighboring community. It's 15 acres of Christmas and amazing light displays as well as food, music and "pony rides". We went down with 2 other families and our friends Cari and McKenzie. Cass was the youngest and unlike the other kiddos, wanted nothing to do with simply being pushed around in her stroller. Oh no, our girl was all about walking around and getting the true experience.

Sam and Cari came over for our exchange and totally spoiled Cassidy...although I think they had just as much fun as she did!

Christmas Eve found us up in B'town with Chad's side of the family.

Of course Cassidy had to help deliver all the gifts

G'ma Kit started a new tradition of giving the kids ornaments every year and it was a big hit!

The whole clan around the dinner table

Cassidy was thrilled about the yummy ribs!

After dinner was playtime with her cousins. The girls are awesome with her and they had a great time.

The other tradition is new Christmas PJs to end the night

We woke up in our own home Christmas morning and had a quiet Christmas day with just the three of us. It was a lot of fun making our own traditions and spending the whole day relaxed and together. Here's some pics of Cassidy putting all her new things to good use!

G'ma and G'pa K gave her a fun tent and tunnel system that has become her "club house" and usually no adults allowed...but lots of toys and babies get brought in!

The blocks are just as much fun as the tub they came in!

Taking her babies and Lulu for a ride in her new stroller. Cassidy loves playing with her babies.

Her big new towel is also a great treat! She loves twirling around and getting wrapped up and "cudde" with Mom and Dad

It was a great Christmas spending time with family and enjoying our new traditions with our own growing family.

Cass's True Colors

For those of you who think Cassidy is all sweetness; calm and well behaved I offer this series of pictures.

Ready....

Set.....


JUMP!





Yes, she purposefully stuck out her tongue for the picture.

She does get tired of jumping and says "nigh nigh", cuddles up and rests.....for about 20 seconds!

She was not happy about the "lifeguard" keeping watch, but after she bounced off the bed the other night she doesn't get a choice! This is her new favorite activity and even after 20 minutes of bouncing and tickling we still get "more?" when we say all done! If only she'd share some of that energy...although her laughter is pretty contagious