This week was Thanksgiving and we had a blast. We spent the day visiting with my family – Gigi, Mimi, Bapu and our family friend Cindy all gathered up for a big lunch and Kevin and Ember and I happily attended.

Then it was off to see MaMaw, Granddaddy and Kevin’s nephew Aiden for our second Thanksgiving of the day. Needless to say, we had plenty to eat.

We ran out and got our first real Christmas tree as a family on Friday, a thing I swore I wouldn’t do until I drove past the tree lots this week and had an unavoidable urge to bring one home.

Ember is a fan. 

We spent Saturday visiting Kevin’s family (baby requested) in Englewood, TN and then came home totally beat. In our spare time, Ember is cutting a second tooth and although she can get cranky, overall she’s still her happy self.

Sunday was spent taking it easy after a hike with friends and some light grocery shopping.

Her school photos came in not long ago, and I had to laugh at her wild side hairs in these pictures.

But, of course, she’s adorable and we paid through the nose for them as expected. We’ve got family photos scheduled for this coming weekend (after cancellation twice – sorry Katie). 

My dad’s graveside service is set for next Monday and this past week we sold the house I grew up in that he owned. It’s been a busy time and things aren’t always easy, but I can’t wait to tell Ember all about her silly sweet Grandpa Ted, even if she only met him a few times. 

I know he was so happy for me and Kevin to have her and I can’t imagine anything else he could have asked for than to meet and hold her before he left. Holidays are always a mix of feelings about family that is and isn’t there, I guess. 

I couldn’t be more thankful for my fantastic life with so many sweet caring people and even when it feels overwhelming or stressful or tiring or frustrating, I know I’m so very lucky. Thank you to everyone who cares about my little happy family. We’re so glad to have you!