Winter Fun

We've spent many different occasions taking in all the sights that winter has to offer. Our annual Hoo Family trip to Vegas was very chilly, but Leibee was able to enjoy herself at various locations by seeing all the sparkling lights and decorated trees. It was especially surprising that she was entertained by the Tournament of the Kings show at Excalibur!

"Snow" play in class afforded her the opportunity to experiment with toys and snow in a contained environment without getting cold. We took her up to Lake Arrowhead for the real stuff, and it was a huge hit! She really liked removing her mittens, throwing snow, and tasting it in her mouth.

Christmas with Leibee

Christmas Eve was spent at a nearby church for a joint candlelight service. We later retreated to our cozy home and enjoyed the twinkling lights on our tiny tree. Leibee likes to enter the dark apartment, point to the tree, and request that it be iluminated. She claps her hands in delight upon seeing it lit up with many beautiful lights!

We spent a quiet Christmas morning at home, opening presents and eating blueberry pancakes for breakfast. A special Chinese doughball soup was also on the agenda, but our busyness prevented up from actually getting to it.

For dinner, we headed to Lowell's eldest sister's house, where we dined on our annual tradition of prime rib and all the fixings. Leibee played the harmonica for her cousins, aunties, and uncles.

We're looking forward to some quality time next month with our nieces and nephews at our first ever cousins' sleepover!

Thankful Leibee

We spent a quiet Thanksgiving dinner at home with Lauren's dad and youngest brother. Leibee filled up on sparkling apple cider and crackers, leaving little room for apple-brined turkey and stuffing at dinner.

The next morning we hit Target, Lowe's, and the mall for some Black Friday shopping. It was nice spending an entire day together. There was a lovely Christmas tree set up for viewing and photo opportunities.

At the Park

One of Leibee's favorite activities is going for our twice-daily walks around the neighborhood. We sometimes visit the local park and feed the ducks. Getting outdoors is always a welcome experience. On this particular outing, Leibee climbed onto the bench and posed for the camera. She likes to view the picture on my digital camera afterwards.

Taking the Stairs

Leibee can now go up and down the stairs by herself. She's good about waiting for us before heading down, but she'll sneak up without our knowing sometimes. We have to keep a close eye on her. When she goes up she says, "Up,

please." On the way down it's "Down". Occasionally she takes a rest by sitting down on a step until she's ready to continue.

Halloween

This will probably be the last time I can choose Leibee's Halloween costume. Next year, she'll most likely have her own ideas about what to dress up as. With hair twisted into a bun and her pink tutu, our little ballerina was all set for her recital. We did some trick-or-treating with her cousins, ate KFC for dinner, and headed over to CCAC for the International Fun Factory, a carnival held annually. Of particular interest were the ponies (sorry, Leibee. Maybe next year when you're 2.). She also ate a snack-size Twix bar and pack of M&Ms.

All Smiles

Leibee's been embracing comfort items for some time now. She likes to cuddle with soft, huggable things such as her stuffed Rhino, plush Baby Boo (from "Monsters, Inc."), and fleece Hello Kitty blanket. For several minutes following her afternoon nap, this blanket, for example, helps make the transition a little easier. She enjoys wrapping up her body in it, squeezing it close to herself, and feeling it against her skin. Rhino and Baby (or "Beebee") Boo are bedtime companions that she gives exuberant hugs and sweet kisses to.

Sitting down on a nearby curb, Leibee decided to take a break and wait for me to load up the car. She looked so at ease examining the fallen leaves and being one with nature. I instructed her to "cheese" for the camera, and this is what I got!