Giving Thanks

I have been really excited about the holiday season starting -- Thanksgiving, Halloween and Christmas! This year is especially exciting as it is our first holiday season in our new home and as a family of three.

Anyone who really knows me knows how much I LOVE any kind of holiday and the traditions that go along with it -- including the decorating. The only problem with wanting to go all out this year is not having the budget to support it -- being off on adoption leave is a delicate balance between wants and needs. So...I kept the decorating for Thanksgiving low-key. I love the way in which the forest behind our house drops beautiful leaves on the ground and adds to the fall look around our house -- all for free! :)

This year Paul and I hosted my Mom's side of the family for Thanksgiving dinner -- our first big holiday gathering. We planned out the meal ahead of time and felt completely on top of things -- but didn't realize how difficult it would be to look after Maelyn and cook at the same time. Thankfully, my sister and brother-in-law were there to make sure that she was entertained and fed. Even more importantly, they made sure that she was comfortable in the crowd of people we had over.

Normally the 'kids' are relegated to the smaller table, but this year the 'kids' outnumbered the parents -- the balance of power has shifted!

Spending quality time with siblings and cousins...

Although we try to take the time to appreciate how lucky we are, this year we are especially thankful for the people in our lives. Our family and friends have shown us a tremendous amount of love and support over the past year -- the likes of which we could have never imagined. You all need to know how much we love you and are grateful for your presence in our lives.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Just because....