Thankful

This Thanksgiving was simple, easy and laid back. Thank goodness. After coming back from our trip to California, it seemed like I literally unpacked, clean the house, went grocery shopping and Thanksgiving was here. We didn't have to travel, or house hop or even really have to cook or clean...yes it was that easy! Both sets of Chris' parent came for lunch, bringing lots of food in hand My husband did the hard stuff...the turkey and dressing. I made cranberry sauce. Yep, that's it folks. I didn't feel like I hosted at all, other then us having it at our house. My in-laws washed dishes and cleaned my kitchen too! We watched football and played with Jude. My Longhorns lost...boo. But I pretty much expected that and well I guess I can give Chris a turn to brag for once. I was thankful for such a relaxing day! We were all thankful for our husband/father/son to be at home and in America. That indeed was our biggest appreciation this year. Thankful that he is home. Thankful that he is safe. Thankful that we are free. Thankful to the men and women who are still putting their lives on the line for us everyday. Thanksgiving is really such a special tradition and holiday...there is nothing more to it than being thankful for what we have. No gifts to exchange, no Santa or bunnies or dressing in costumes. Not that that stuff isn't fun, but in the end, all that matters is that we appreciate the life we have. I know that I am thankful for mine.

Jude had all the attention with two sets of grandparents and a great Uncle playing with him.

Eugene and Vickie are sleepy and full on the couch



Unlce Ted is out



Jude was a happy kid despite no nap






He loved playing on Nani's iphone apps.

The Happiest Place on Earth

Sliding at Goofy's Garden

Family picture with Mickey!

Chris lifting Jude to see the Christmas Parade!

Carousels aren't as scary if mom rides with you

Winnie the Pooh...live and in person!

Checking out the many sights at Toon Town

Goofy was, well goofy

Jude took a quick snooze on the "It's a Small World" ride...but woke up to singing dolls....he probably thought he was dreaming

Took a spin in Alice in Wonderland's Tea Cups

Family Picture

Ready to Roll

Fun at the fountains

Family picture!

Rainforest Cafe

Walking with Grandma

This past weekend was full of California fun. We were able to spend a long weekend in Anaheim via the Army. It was my 4th and final Yellow Ribbon Event. The Army Reserve and it's attempts to keep soldiers and their families mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually happy pre, during, and post deployments has created this series of conventions that are completely paid for. We usually have the events somewhere in Texas but were happy to find out at the last minute that it was in Anaheim. Traveling with a toddler isn't exactly relaxing but we wanted to take the opportunity to go to Disneyland with him. Thank goodness we had Grandma Becky helping us out too. We arrived Thursday and experienced downtown Disney (restaurants and shopping). Friday we spent the day at Disneyland which was already decorated for Christmas. It was really exciting and brought back memories of our family trips to Disney World in Florida and a summer trip to Disneyland with my best friend in high school. I LOVE Disney. It really is a magical place and although Jude was a little young to take it all in, he sure did have fun. The weather was cool and cloudy and it started to drizzle just as we were leaving. It rained off and on the rest of the weekend (while we were stuck inside anyway). So much for sunny California. But we had fun despite time changes and late nights with no naps. I see many more Disney trips in our future:)

Mickey Mouse Rocks the House!

This Halloween was different than any other I've ever experienced. Mostly because our little boy had a very full social calendar. Halloween from here on out is all about the kids. Well let's face it, kids make ALL Holidays that much more fun. Unfortunately our little party mouse was party pooped by Sunday and did not get to go trick or treating. Instead of candy he got strep AND Bronchitis....yuck! It made for a very long week, but I'm happy to report he is back to good health and his normal self. Fortunately we did get a few pictures at his school party/parade and at Vivienne's party too.

Minnie is cruising all around now. Check out her adorable costume as well as Miss Viv's Zoo Keeper costume in the background!
Holy Cow....I think that's the cutest cow I've ever seen! (aka Sophia)

Mommies with Mickey and Minnie

Rikki playing pin the tail on Minnie

Jude at the playground....wouldn't let go of Mommy (should have been my first sign that he wasn't feel so good)

Cookies at the school party were a MESS! Thank goodness for stain remover!

Check out the play dough station at the party....and then notice Jude at the end of the table digging through the candy:)

Here are all the other children (mix of age groups) playing with the play dough.....and not digging in the candy.

Mommy and MickeyFun Day!