Thanksgiving was all I hoped it would be.  The weather was beautiful, everyone was healthy and the food was not that bad.  Since I planned the meal to be taken on our patio, I took pains to clean the flower beds - its a shame I have to be forced to do that, but I admit, most times I work best under pressure, the threat of scrutiny by others can act as a necessary catalyst.  The benefits continue in the long run, since I am still enjoying the clean flower beds long after the guests have left ;->

The day after Thanksgiving, we all headed out to Holly Lake Ranch for a fun filled weekend!  I reserved two units so we would all have plenty of room.  Leo seemed to really enjoy the "campout - m.e. style"  Candice said he went to bed without a fuss, slept all night, and appeared to enjoy everything we did.  We grabbed some supper at The Grill Friday night, and just relaxed for the evening.  Saturday morning, we went fishing and Uncle Casey caught a lovely little sun perch for Leo to reel in.  I think he was half grossed out and half elated at the sight of the fish.  His reaction is always so much fun!  That evening we drove the scenic route over to Marshall for the Wonderland of Lights in the downtown square, we had a lovely dinner at the OS2 on the square, listened to some music while the light show played, then took the double decker bus to look at the towns Christmas decorations - it was small town stuff, but still lots of fun, and I think we made some really cool memories for the kids!  Chad bought some wood, for the fireplaces back at the ranch and we enjoyed the fire for a while before we turned in for the night.  Sunday, Leo wanted to be outside at the Schwide (slide) or at the park, so we did that, and just enjoyed the beautiful weather and the fall colors of east Texas!  I'm so pleased with how the entire week went, everything was lovely, and I praise God yet again for the gift of family, health and good times spent together!

Over the river and through the woods to Grandmothers house we go.

What a beautiful week it has been.  I took the week off, so I could fully participate in Thanksgiving this year.  I will host the meal at my house and plan to have the meal on our patio - so far the weather is cooperating, now if the bees that occasionally come visit at meal times will find somewhere else to celebrate, we will bee in good shape!

Candice, Leo and I went to Oklahoma to see Nana and have a nice lunch with her.  Candice made Butternut Squash soup, ham and cheese croissants and buttermilk pie for dessert.  We also got to visit with Aunt Betty and Aunt Georgina.  We had a nice trip and I know we will remember how blessed we were to be together for years to come!

Galveston 2013

The family gathering in Galveston this year was wonderful.  The weather cooperated perfectly and the beach was beautiful - the resort is keeping the beach so tidy that Candice and I couldn't find enough sea shells to craft with - fortunately I brought my collection so we were able to use those for the Christmas Tree Angels we made. 

Leo turned two years old while we were there and we celebrated the evening at the Rain Forest Cafe - the food was not as amazing as the decor, but I think he had a great time, its a great place for kids.  We sat next to the elephant display, he really liked that.  When the rainstorm noises would begin, he would get quiet and  look up to see where the rain, thunder and lightning were coming from - it was so cute!!

I asked everyone to wear black shirts for our family picture this year and with just a little photo shopping it looks great!   Actually in the distance, there was a person behind Casey and a garbage can behind me - can you tell??