November in a Nutshell

November is the real start of the holiday season, and I LOVE IT!!!! Between the family visits, delicious food, and gracious attitude, November sparks something is people. It seems that we are all much more aware of our blessings and we are willing to be a little more patient and kind to those around us.

Andrew, Grace, Cali, and I drove down to California to spend 2 glorious weeks with my family and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. My parent's house was filled to the brim, bursting with 3 babies, 3 dogs, a toddler, and lots of Thanksgiving energy.

It was so wonderful to have the whole gang home together in California, and we definitely packed in the fun. The boys went to a Duck's hockey game; the girls went out for breakfast and reflexology massages. We watched movies, blasted music, cooked the most amazing turkey we have ever tasted, and caught up with extended family.

We were also able to get some family pictures taken. It is amazing to think about how much has changed in just one year.  These new babies have brought so much joy into our family 

Thanksgiving 2018

Christmas 2017

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Another significant part of our lives this month revolved around Andrew's dad, Randy. We found out that Randy has esophageal cancer. This news has put an emotional and physical strain on the family as we have tried to work together to help him prepare for treatment. Andrew, Grace, and I went to visit Randy before we left for California. Grace was all smiles towards her Grandpa, and I think she helped to lift his spirit a little bit. 

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Our last big event of November occurred at the end of our California trip. We were able to spend a day at Disneyland and introduce Gracie to all the Disney magic. She is still a little young to appreciate it, but it still was so much fun. There is something especially magical about Disney during the holidays (although I do have to admit that the holiday fireworks show was a complete dud). We took our fair share of pictures (as you can see below). It was the perfect ending to a great trip.