18 weeks - First snow, First Christmas tree, Cal's new voice

This week does not have the greatest picture, as Cal did not want to cooperate, but he is wearing some pretty sweet jeans! Thanks Sheryl and Kim!

This was Cal's second Christmas tree cutting extravaganza, however this year is the only one where he could actually see what was going on. Last year, we joined Mike and Kim and Kim's sister Sheryl and her husband Dave, and their friends Ross and Leah on their annual Christmas tree cutting at Bryan's Tree Farm. The morning starts our with yummy cinnamon buns at Mike and Kim's house, followed by a 45 minute drive out to who knows where Pennsylvania to get the tree. Last year, all of the ladies were pregnant! SO much has changed in one year, and it was a little more crazy, much more comfortable and a lot more fun!

2012

2013

Cal braved the weather by being bundled up in his snow suit, where he watched everything that came his way. The fun of Bryan's Tree Farm is that we start out by getting on a trailer attached to a tractor that pulls us along a muddy path full of potholes and bumps (hang on tight!), and then we end up at the top of the hill, and once we are there, we soon realize that all the good trees are back at the bottom where we started! So the hike begins and we search around to find the best tree - this year we went with a small tree, considering last years 10 foot+ beast had to be strapped to the radiator by a bungee cord and every day we were reminded that bigger is not better! So here are some pictures from the event, taken by Sheryl!

Wow, we truly have multiplied!

Another exciting event this week was that Cal was able to experience his first snow! His thoughts are quite obvious.

Next up, Cal has taken an interest in Matt and I eating. Every time we sit down to eat he watches our every move, the food going to our mouth, us picking it up, drinking water, every step he wants to see. I don't think we will have an problems starting solids in a couple of months if this keeps up.

Speaking of food, this is how you can find Cal and I most evenings, just cooking away in the kitchen! He is a huge observer, and wants to be a part of the action. He will put his little hand on my arm sometimes in an effort to help make my job easier. Way to go Cal. :)

Still loving the jumpy swing this week.

Cal is fortunate to have many baby friends that live close by, one of which being Lexie. She is only a few days older than Cal and they are really starting to notice each other and smile when they are near.

Uh oh! You caught us!

Here Cal is trying to hold her hand, such a friendly little guy. 

Speaking of baby friends, here is a picture of Cal and his birthday twin Naomi! They are laying on an awesome quilt made by Nurit, Naomi's mom and man, she is a crafty lady!

I'm fairly certain this is the best part of the week. Cal likes to reach up and touch our faces - we like to think it's his baby form of a hug. We are loving it, and clearly he is too. 

Cal's Aunt Amber sent him some great Christmas/Winter books that he is loving to read already. His favorite thing it to study the details in the pictures and turn the pages.

Cal's voice has changed from a crazy yell to a high pitched squeak. 

Lastly, here are the many faces of Cal for this week. Those cheeks truly are the best.