Lest you think my man did't contribute. He did. He was the official photographer and the last man standing after all had left. He made sure all the dishes were done and dishwasher emptied before his day was done.
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with children, grandchildren and siblings. Each of us participated even the kids (Sofia served the food loaded crowd downstairs their pie) I think we had more than enough side dishes as I was madly microwaving a couple things even as we were starting with the soup and salad. Pauline had a well thoughtout and prepared turkey craft for the kids and once they saw the results of their efforts loved it. We were thankful for: return to good health, family, jobs, help when needed and grace of God. The children and grandchildren watched Wall e while the older adults chilled Bro Dan wanted to take a walk. He thought I walked too fast but managed to keep up and saw a shorter way home than i was planning. It invigorated us to try the pies Pauline brought. Mel made her wonderful salad. John made grilled vegetables and green bean casserole. All in all it was a well orchestrated day. Thank you Lord for a grace filled day!
I got home from Atlanta and within a couple days had a great time with the Minnesota girls at the new MOA American girl bistro for lunch. The girls were great and we had a super table overlooking the park and all the rides. This is going to be an American girl Christmas for all the girls (including the southern girls). It brings out the girl child in us looking at and deciding what to purchase for each of the girls and their personalities. The bistro lunch was a birthday party for Auntie Non. Wow, what fun to be a part of all these memorable moments
I had a great time with the "grits" or 'girls raised in the south'. We baked, saw two great movies, a school play, did crafts, games and went walking and playing at the park nearby. They are wonderful granddaughters, I love them tons and tons. It is hard to be away for such long periods of time. One funny moment was when Gracie wanted to sleep with me and she got into bed with her, well lets mildly say,gross bunny blankey that smelled badly. I said she would have to substitute another blanket if she was going to sleep with me as i couldn't stand the smell ( I soaked and washed it the next day) and she put it on the floor and used another blanket. Wow, I was impressed that a Grandma could have that much influence. I am proud of you all!!
I will admit to my new addiction. I am making jewlery. Now don't get excited those who know me well and try to expand it. i am doing it a certain way and enjoying it. i will add new challenges as I see the need. Attached is a photo of some of the jewlery. You will notice i am onto rock type necklaces and wear them every chance I get. I also presently use a lot of turquoise. It has something to do with the genetics of my southwest origins on my Fathers side.
We are in a townhouse with Mike and Caroline as out roofmates. After having landscaping done in June, Caroline and I made gardens after the book "Squarefoot gardens". Now, I do not want to brag as Caroline is truly the brains behind our garden and I follow her direction although she is extremely user friendly and wants to think I contribute as much to the plan. In case you wonder what we are doing is stirring the mix of three things for the soil in our gardens. An example of the garden is in the background. Anyway, we had fun and have different plans for the winter for intertainment. Later.
What is up with my Jakester? What happened to my boy....with all the memories we share and no documentation. It is all in my heart. He is now in the initial stages of becoming a man and I proud of what I see. He is active in Scouts or has a "party" so is not available for Friday night pizza. He has long days this Fall as he practices and prepares for the play he is in at school in early December. The name of the play is Fame. He did such a good job as the pirate at the Treasure Island play last year that I am very excited to see how this goes.
Here are my special princesses and pirate after returning from a outdoor autumn party at church. They are so fun. What can I say? This is what I do. Invest in the adults of the future. Are they special or what?
Isabelle and I enjoyed time at the arboretum and looked at all the scarecrows. She led through some of the paths in the woods and it was very fun. How special and fun with my little princess.
Today Sofia, John Michael and Lilia were here for the afternoon. We had fun with the first snow of the season. It is the same every year. The first snow is very exciting even to me. By March I am more than over it but for today I am excited. We slid down the hill in the back yard and attempted a snow man but the snow was a little wet. Fun, fun.