Christmas 2011

We had a very BUSY and very fun Christmas! As I mentioned my little brother and mom were both here and we did a lot of eating, shopping and hanging out. Christmas Eve we had a big dinner. I did a turkey and I had heard about brining it before and wanted to try it. I got a kit from Safeway and holy cow! It was SO good- not dry at all with lots of flavor. I don't think I'll make a turkey again without brining it first. Anyway, my mom brought us a ton of chocolates and candy and Avery had a chocolate spoon- she was in heaven! After dinner we opened new pajamas from Grandma, went home and put Avery to bed and then got stockings and Santa presents organized while Bud, Michael and Chad went to the movies. Christmas morning was an early morning and really busy. We got up about 730 and headed over to Kaytes to do stockings after Avery checked out her Santa presents. She got lots of bath toys and some yummy food and 'quiet' toys for church. That Santa is so smart! After stockings we went home and got ready for church, I was singing in the program so we had to be there on time and Avery wore her new Christmas dress that Grandma made- its very cute! After church we ate some breakfast, opened presents and laid around for a bit before heading back to Kayte's for joint presents and appetizers. We were all ready for bed early that night! Avery got some really cute gifts from everyone. The next few days were spent shopping like crazy with my mom and getting manicures and pedicures to celebrate her birthday. We had so much fun and can't wait to see everyone again- once we catch back up on our sleep! :)