Happy Thanksgiving...oink!

Three days late, I send out a wish for a Happy Thanksgiving. A late greeting because the swine flu had me on my back most of the week...oink!

As I lay in bed, I could hear the sound of laughter from two joyful kids echoing up the staircase. More than once a day, each kid would clinb the stairs to check on me. Katie would softly touch my forehead to see if I was still warm, while Conor preferred to pat my belly to ensure I was tucked in just so. I would hear them share conversation at the dinner table, giggle at one another in the bathtub, and sound softly to sleep each night. Their Daddy, leading them through each passing day with ease. I am so thankful for our two healthy kids and my one wonderful husband! While I knew what kind of man he would be the day we exchanged vows, he continues to amaze and impress me. I am ever so thankful!

When the illness finally did pass, we found some moments to enjoy with family.

Happy Thanksgiving to all near and far!

As crazy as it may sound, I am so thankful for the illness that forced me to my back, and gave me time to rest and realize I have a lot to be thankful for. This is a picture of Kate and Conor heading to see Santa. So excited!

Santa was at the Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, MD. We headed out early to spend some time visiting with the Big Man. As you can see from this picture, Kate had a lot to tell him!

I love Christmas! When I was younger, I shared this love with my late Pa. So much so that when he passed, he left his prized Christmas tree to me. Every year since, I have made it tradition to erect his artificial tree, and attempt to replicate what he had made so special. However, with each year, I knew my Hubby loved the idea of having a REAL tree to decorate. So, this year, we headed to a Family Tree Farm to pick out one of our very own. This picture is of Kate and Conor watching their Daddy hacking down the "perfect" tree.

"How will you know when you have found the perfect one? she asked. You just know, I replied. It was smiles all around for our very first REAL Christmas tree. Let the Holidays begin....