Little Things of November

Eliza is all ready for family prayer.... and to fly with the fairies.... and to build a snowman!

We always "deck the halls" the day after Thanksgiving or at least that weekend.  The kids are great at helping.  Shatterproof is key.  I don't think I have any glass ornaments left.  I kind of miss them.  They are definitely prettier, but not worth it while there are little ones around.  Everyone had a fun time for the most part.  Tye only had one melt down (I think).  See.... he's pouting under the tree.

Tooth fairy notes:

Girls night at my mom's house.  Doesn't happen very often, but love it when it does.  My brother, Rick, showed up for a minute so we snapped a quick photo of all us siblings. 

Haley decided one night the only place she would sleep was by the Christmas tree.  She slept all night and didn't sneak into my bed like she has been doing almost every night lately.  It was a welcome change to not wake up to a kick in the back!

We also made gingerbread houses (and trains) with my family the Saturday after Thanksgiving.  A fun tradition the kids love!  It's a nice kickoff to the Christmas season.

Thanksgiving 2011

We spent Thanksgiving Day at my parents house this year.  I took my camera, but only got it out when everyone sang happy birthday to Rachel and Abbey and about 20 minutes before we were about to leave.  What good is it sitting in its bag??  My sister took a few pictures with her phone and sent them to me.  Anyway, as Thanksgivings go, we had a fun day with lots of good food.  Most of the kids and dads went to a nearby park and played football.  I think all us moms were too pooped to get our lazy bums up and go watch.  Now I wish I had.  The kids came back to grandma and grandpa's house with exciting tales to tell.

Naps were had.  Games were played.  Stories were told.  But most importantly, memories were made.

Rachel's 10th Birthday

Rachel turned 10 on November 24, 2011.  It also happened to be Thankgiving so we celebrated a little on the 23rd and the 24th.  I now have a child in the double digits.... eek!  She is such a great kid.  She helps me so much and is kind and patient with her brothers and sisters.  She loves crafts, gymnastics, jewelry, listening to music, playing with friends, and helping in the kitchen.  She is a home body, but I don't mind one bit. :)

Happy birthday, Rachel!  We love you!

A Kindle was #1 on her wish list.  I think it's safe to say she was a happy girl!

 With Grandpa and Nana Bishop.

Rachel shares a birthday with her cousin, Abbey, who turned 15.  After our Thanksgiving feast we had a little birthday celebration for the cute girls.

Thankful

Here are some of the things my kiddos said they are thankful for.  I must say I am truly thankful for my children.  They teach me so much and I am blessed to be their mother.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Birthday, Nate

Happy 33rd Birthday, Nate!  Thank you for all you do.  You are one amazing husband and father!  We love you so much!

St. George

Nate had work in St. George, Utah for a few days so we decided to make it a family affair.  Ryan and Shelly and their kids came as well and stayed in the same condo as us.  Rick and Carly and their kids stayed at Carly's parents St. George home.  While the guys worked we played!  We explored Brigham Young's winter home, Pioneer Park (climbing and exploring... the kids were in heaven) and other fun parks.  The weather was perfect.  The kids loved being able to still swim and play outside.  It was just so nice to be out of the house and take a break from the mundane things of life.  Now, don't you worry.  The guys didn't work too late so every afternoon we were all together enjoying the time together.

Oh, Happy Day

It's been quite the year and a half since Nate's motorcycle accident.  He's doing great.  He is having one more eye surgery in December to help with his double vision problems, but other than that he's good to go.  We couldn't ask for a better outcome and know we are truly blessed beyond what we probably deserve.  He originally got braces to prepare for jaw surgery since he only had a top and bottom molar in the very back of his mouth that could touch.  His braces did wonders.  His teeth moved better than the orthodontist or oral surgeon thought possible.  No surgery was needed.  I tagged along with him to the orthodontist for the fateful day of removal, November 9th.

He thought I was insane to want to be there and witness the unveiling of his new smile.  I was just so happy for him to have it done.  And isn't he just so handsome?

You'd never guess his face was ever a split open, broken mess.  He's my walking, talking miracle of a husband.  My cup runneth over!