Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Camping and Thanksgiving











We had a busy few weekends, but oh so much fun! For Stephanie's birthday we went on our 2nd annual camping expedition and Nate had a blast! So much open space and attention, what more could you ask for. He wasn't too keen on going to bed though, and since he doesn't fall asleep on us well anymore, we hit the hay early with him. I got to sneek back out to the party, but Bob seemed pretty tired, so he and Nate just slept on! It was a bit chilly, but worth it for the quiet.

We used to have a Christmas Eve tradition of camping, but since my pregnancy, and Nate being so little last year, we haven't returned to it. We considered it this year, but after camping in Yosemite, we realized how hard it is to camp with just the 3 of us, no one to help entertain while things get set up, etc. Therefore, to stay within the spirit of our tradition, we have rented a cabin on the outskirts of a horse ranch in Julian for Christmas Eve. We are looking forward to some chilly weather and a change of scenery.

Thanksgiving was at our house this year, being the biggest of the small houses (and if you have been to our house, I know it is hard to imagine it is the biggest). But, we do have ample space in the backyard. The weather chilled on us a bit, but with the use of a heater we rented, it was perfect outside for dinner and beyond. My folks and Cristina drove down from Claremont, Suzanne and Brian came over early to help with preparations, and Lowell and her dad showed up around noon. Nate was in heaven with all the attention...AGAIN! Suzanne and I made our traditional 2 (yes, 2) 20 lbs turkeys! One is for leftovers! There were also massive amounts of mashed potatoes and gravy as well as all the other good stuff. Our friend Lowelly and her dad spent the holiday with us and brought with them 4 homemade pies! I know, you must be wondering how many of us were at this Thanksgiving feast...9 (yes, only 9!) But, it was so good and everyone had plenty to take home with them.

Happy beginning to the holiday season.

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