Isabel & Effie both look a little unsure about the other. Usually, Isabel likes to grab at Effie and Effie likes to lick the grabbing hands, but it seems as though the close proximity has added a new element to the relationship. :)

Now we see why the closeness wasn't exactly welcomed. Effie weighs almost twice as much as Isabel, and she got sucked right in! Effie tried her best to lean out of the way, only to end up on the losing end of the battle.

That's right, not you Dad!!!

Well, almost.... we had an early "Houston" Christmas while Ben's parents were in town. Isabel is watching Effie open a present. Yes, Effie knows how to open her own presents. Apparently, she can also find them before Christmas morning and open them.... Naughty dog!

Isabel checking out her Christmas outfit in the mirror.

Isabel playing with her new blocks. She could sort of open her presents by herself, and while she was, her tongue was sticking out with determination. Unfortunately we were more focused on video taping it than snapping a picture. Oh well....

PaPa's lap is always a fun place to sit!

For real this time! Ben, Beth & Isabel went to visit Beth's family in Belleville, IL for Christmas this year! Here's Isabel & Mommy looking at a freshly opened present.