the thanksgiving report 2013

Since Christmas is only a few days away, I figured it was about time I get some Thanksgiving pictures up. I propose we move Thanksgiving to the beginning of November. It will motivate me to shop earlier and get a bit of a break between holidays. At least I think it will. Anyone else agree?

Thanksgiving this year was not unlike any other. I like the predictability of our annual family gathering. The faces change occasionally, but I know to expect a good time with good food and good people.  This year, we added a few long, lost cousins making a total of 21 (I think), not including the under-age-5 group (which has grown to a total of six now). The weather was amazing, so we were able to enjoy mom and dad's new covered patio and "play" in the sunshine. The boys turned the go-peds into a competition, complete with a couple of wrecks. Helmets may have been a good idea. And the girls, including Aunty Beth, cruised around in the jeep. She may have enjoyed her beverage a little too much, or maybe enjoyed it just the right amount, you decide. Noah chilled in the Moby wrap much of the day and slept through dinner, as any good two week old should. I was less organized about group pictures this year, but I did what I could with a baby strapped to me. As always, there are a few who managed to escape the camera completely. I'll try harder next year. 

And now, just 33 of my favorite shots from our day. 

 

 

 

On Friday, we ventured to downtown Oroville for a little local shopping. I designated myself stroller watcher and spent most of the time outside of the stores with our ever growing flock of children. As I stood on the sidewalk outside the kitchen store, I realized I was drawing the attention of passing cars and not in the flattering way of my younger, single years. It probably had something to do with the three strollers with four kids that surrounded me, and the fifth one strapped to the front of me. My how times have changed, and really, I wouldn't want it any other way. 

Another Thanksgiving is in the books. New memories, a few pictures to prove it, and hearts full until next year. Now, onto the next holiday!