The Rest of November . . .

 I know there have been a lot of pictures of Caleb on here lately . . . but it's his birthday month.  And he's growing up too fast.  And I realized that I didn't have many "nakey" pictures of him.  And he's adorable.  And I needed some "blankey" pictures too.  And these were taken on his actual one year old birthday.  Okay, moving on . . .

 Pasty dinner.  (It's a U.P. thing.)  And it was Caleb's first time trying one . . . he loved it.  Me, I'm not really a fan, but ketchup helps. 

 Anna and Benjamin being silly at GraMelissa and Grampa Chuck's house.  They have been playing so well together, and so often lately, and making up super funny pretend scenarios.  I LOVE it. 

 My dad had his "Graduation" party this month.  His retired on October 31st, and some Scouting volunteers planned this party for him the middle of November.  It was cool to see how many people attended (friends, family - including my grandparents in the pic above, co-workers, volunteers, Rotary people, community people, etc.).  It was also neat to see all the awards/honors he received, the kind remarks from multiple people who have felt influenced by my dad, and especially touching at the end when my dad had my mom come up to receive recognition of her own for all the support and volunteering she did during his career.  Sweetness.  So yeah - very happy for my dad . . . and my mom. 

And since we're still living with my parents (we are closing on our house SOON), it's been fun to see first hand his transition into retirement.  Like long hikes with buddy - not his usual hour or so . . . closer to 3-4 hours on some days!  Lots of grandkid time.  :)  He's become a little more spendy, and is always going out to eat with my mom, and planning trips and "get aways."  (They deserve it! :)  He's actually home in the evenings, a rareity before, and watches a little TV now.  And yes, he has occasionally seemed lost, but quickly recovers.  Oh, and he's spent plenty of time at the office volunteering, so that helps too.  hehe.  Congratulations, Dad!!!

 Thanksgiving this year was so relaxed. I loved it.  We all slept in.  Ethan and I both had early afternoon naps.  We watched the parade on TV with my parents.  We watched some football.  We snuggled and lounged with the kids.  We stayed in pj's until the afternoon.  We prepared a few simple things to bring to Chuck and Melissa's.  We had a beautiful before dinner walk around Shiras Hills.  We ate a delish meal . . . it was SO yummy.  Anna helped with some fun decorations, and reminded us all to go around the table and say what we're thankful for.  (Doesn't she look so grown up in the pic above?!)  The only thing - poor Benjamin was sick with a 24 hour bug or food illness.  So sad for him!  Especially since he is so obsessed with food and had been looking forward to this for so long.  He actually watched movies and slept through the Thanksgiving meal.   Caleb on the other hand . . . you can see for yourself, below.  He was in Heaven.   

I'm feeling pretty thankful for all the good things in my life.  Especially family.  Immediate, extended, near, far, older, younger - family means so much to me.  I've been positively influenced, and loved, and helped by so many different family members (many of whom are probably reading this journal entry :), and I'm just so grateful for that.  So, hope you all had a fabulous month and joyous Thanksgiving as well!  Love to all!