Holiday Weekend Happenings

We had such a fun and memorable weekend this past weekend. Jackson and I had a relaxing and fun day at home on Wednesday, building "tents" out of chairs and blankets (even though he has a perfectly nice tent in his room). He wanted to read in the "tent", play with his blocks in there, and drive his bus and truck in there. I was having a great time just being with my son, so it was the perfect day.

The following day, of course, was Thanksgiving. Jake went to work early, but was home by eleven so we could go over to my mom's early to help get Thanksgiving dinner ready. This year my mom decided to have her side of the family over, and we had a great day! The dinner, of course, was incredible, and Grandma Miller (Nana Mill, as Jackson would say) baked the most delicious pies. Following dinner, we played a fun game of Hoopla and enjoyed making fun of Jake's artistic skills (or lack thereof--we love you Jake!).

Friday was the Christmas season kick-off with Christmas in the Nighttime Skies. This is an event that has become a tradition since I've known Jake (he actually proposed to me there a few years ago--it was so beautiful!). For the donation of a toy, you get to have a yummy chili/baked potato dinner and a fantastic fireworks display! While waiting for the fireworks, they have huge bonfires to hang out near and stay toasty. Our friend, Maria, and her two beautiful daughters, Tonia and Aide (ToniaDay as Jackson calls them--all one name for both of them) joined us, as well as Michelle, my best friend, and Keshia, Bram, and their adorable little baby, Zane (more friends of our's). When we got there, we happened to camp out at the same campfire as my sister-in-law, Hannah, and her friend--we had so much fun! We decided to take Jackson to see Santa for his first time (he screamed and said "Santa scarey"), but we got an adorable picture! The night was gorgeous and the company was the best!

Saturday was the annual Christmas Tree Outing! We went during the afternoon and it was sooooo sunny and gorgeous, with a brand-new layer of snow on the ground. Picture Perfect! My parents went along, as did Michelle. It was Michelle's first time having her own real tree, so it was super-exciting! She found a wonderful tree, as did Jake and I. We had to joke around that my parents' tree was the Griswold Family Christmas Tree, because my mom thought it was so perfect and my dad swore that it was "way too big". All in all, we were all very happy with our finds and loaded them up. Jackson had fantastic time playing in the snow and getting tons of rides in his sled. He's definitely not afraid of speed!!! He had a couple of crashes, but nothing major. When we got home, we put up the tree and decorated and had everyone over for a chili dinner. What a great day!

It was the perfect kick-off for the Christmas season! I'm so excited for this month and the traditions we share as a family. I'm so thankful that Jake and I celebrate the true reason for Christmas year-round, but so enjoy special Christmas memories each year during this time! I will leave you all now with the fun image of my almost-two-year-old son trying to sing Jingle Bells while shaking his own little set of jingle bells and bopping up and down to the song--precious and unforgettable! I love you all and hope you experience the true joys of Christ in anticipation of Christmas.