Christmas in California

We had a great time in California this Christmas. James enjoyed his first Christmas and loved hanging out with his grandparents, many aunts and uncles, and his new cousin! James actually did really well on the plane ride there and back despite having to make 3 stops each way! James and I were so happy that Sam didn't have to look at any school books for 2 whole weeks! We loved being able to spend so much time with family. We miss them already!

Here is our trip in pictures, in no particular order.

While we were in CA Sam went with 2 of his siblings to Mammoth for 3 days. He was soo excited to go and had a great time. He really misses skiing. So, while he was gone skiing I went down to the OC and spent some time with my good friend, Carly from BYU. She has two adorable kids and her boy is just 3 months younger than James. It was so fun staying and catching up with her. James and Pierson, future BYU roommates for sure!

Avery, Pierson, and James

This is the super nice, fancy camera that we got for Christmas from Sam's family!!! I LOVE it!! I was so surprised that we got this camera because I told Sam that I wanted it but that we would have a wait awhile and save our money up. I have already taken soo many pictures with it. James is going to be the most documented kid!

The girls on New Year's. Back left to right: Sonali, Naomi; Front Lto R: Grandma Strebel, Cindy, and me

James ringing in the New Year!

James on his first mountain walk. It was very cold! I don't know what he thought about the snow suit. He really couldn't move!

Putting on the snowsuit.

James loved his cousin. It is so fun to have a cousin so close in age with James. Cooper is just 2 months younger. We are not sure what Cooper thought of James. Cooper is such a mellow good baby and James was probably really loud for him.

This is James "playing" with Cooper. He was drooling and teething the whole trip. Anything he could get in his mouth he would. He now has two little teeth coming in on the bottom. I can't believe my little baby is getting teeth!

James getting his first real hair cut. Aunt Lisa cuts hair and did a great job with squirmy James. Goodbye, rat's tail! Is it me or is his hair looking more red??!!

James learning how to sit!

All six Strebel kids. L to R: Andy, Sam, Lisa, Cindy, Laura, Hans

While we were there baby Cooper was blessed at church. It was so neat that everyone was able to be there and participate in the blessing.

Christmas dinner.

Christmas day.

James and Aunt Cindy

Cousin love. This was how most of the trip was spent-James in Cooper's face and Cooper just tolerating it.

Love the chubby cheeks!

This is the firetruck that James got from Aunt Cindy for Christmas. I thought it would be too big but him, but I was wrong and he loves it. I'm sure this is the first of many firetrucks for James!

James and CooperHappy Boy!