Enjoying family...

I've been in a bit of a "bloggers" fog over the last few weeks, 

life seems busy, 

holiday happenings have begun, 

there seems to be less time in the day...

does anyone else feel that way?

The best part is that we have been spending lots of time 

with the people we love. 

The week before Thanksgiving Rick got busy with some 

sprucing-up of the downstairs bedroom. 

Audrey was helping us pick a paint color, she seems to be favoring "minty green"

She did not win...

We went with "big fish" green

Rick covered the bottom half to the wall with pine boards, 

he even trimmed out the window in pine, we love this look.

We can check this project off our list of things-to-do!

It was my year to host Rick's family for Thanksgiving, 

21 people for a sit-down meal, 

we made it work, also had a table of 8 in the kitchen.

My favorite turkey carver

Our oldest son helping (he's so much like his dad)

My niece Jill's husband Travis, with his plate full of food

Mostly the kids table, all cousins and their spouse,

 with little Audrey on the end.

There's always football watching

We were blessed to have our oldest son Brice, his wife Jennifer and

 granddaughter Scarlett stay with us for 3 nights

Lots of much needed bonding with the littlest.

Girl cousins bonding....the fun has only just begun.

Daughter Brianna playing with her sweet niece.

Our three, I love it when they are here together. 

Just a few short years ago they were all living here with us in this house

I miss that.... just a mama thing!  

I really am proud of who they have become, such amazing young adults :)

Sunday we spent the day with Audrey & Carson. 

Now that Audrey is in school we don't get to see them nearly enough, 

Ice cream after lunch

Carson was happy to take a nap in the "Big Boy" bed, 

surrounded by stuffed animals and cozy blankets.

My heart is full, such a wonderful long holiday weekend, 

A great time spent with those who are near and dear to us.