Random Pictures from November

After returning from Napa, we were able to celebrate Aunt Nessa's birthday with a cake and some decorations.  

And with all cakes come candles.  This year we lit 40 candles.  There were some who were concerned about needing the fire department or fire extinguisher ready!

Andrew giving the kids a geography lesson.  They love to learn and they love when Andrew engages them in his life lessons.

Oh Cater.  The two big kids take swimming lessons on the weekend and Cate refuses to be left out.  She gets to swim with Andrew (b/c I refuse to get in the pool when I am not swimming laps) and loves it.

My Govember friends!

Willie had a Thanksgiving Feast at school where each kid brought in a healthy snack and they shared all the snacks provided and got to bring home the left over.

For Thanksgiving we went to Indiana to visit friends.  We set up a kids table and the kids went around and said what they were thankful for. I took a video of it. I hope to be able to repeat the same experience in the years to come and watch how the children grow and evolve.  The adults then turned on the tv and ate Thanksgiving dinner quietly.

Friday is for Football.  Clearly.  Steve smoked various meats while we were there and so the guys set up a heater and a television.  They stood out there for hours without coming inside.  I was jealous they were able to escape the noise level of six kids but someone had to make sure the kids didn't get themselves in trouble!

Baby Nate and I were best friends. He was so much fun to hold and be around. He did not make me think I need another baby. Babies are a lot of work even if they are "good" babies.

Slumber party!

We drove home Saturday afternoon/evening and then worked to set up the Christmas tree first thing Sunday morning. Miss M couldn't wait one more minute.  I had brought the tubs of Christmas stuff upstairs the night before which I was so glad I had done but there's still so much work to get everything out.  Tiffany was around while we were setting up the tree so her and Miss M worked to put all the ornaments on the tree. I set up the more breakable things and Andrew and Willie and Cater raked leaves.  It was a win for everyone.  Sitting in the front room each evening with only the tree lights on is so pretty.

Attempting to top the tree with the Santa topper.  It was a failed attempt but we managed to get the topper on with no injuries.