Thanksgiving 2008 turned out to be my favorite Thanksgiving ever! The close runner up Thanksgiving was eight years ago when Alyssa and I flew to the PNW for Jenny and Chris's wedding - that was one for the record books - it was wild! I can't come close to hostessing an event that rivals Jenny's wedding, because when it comes right down to it, I think my house is relatively boring. However, when a home is filled with aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, teenage cousins and three hyper dogs - there is love, and wonderful memories are made in spite of the lack of excitement.
My heart overflowed with joy as I spent the day with my favorite people:
Listening to cousins laughing together is one of the nicest sounds on earth:
Buddy has a new girlfriend - he fell in love with Lon and Debbie's dog, Sophie. Poor Sophie - Buddy would NOT leave her alone. He was so enamored with her and he followed her everywhere. He even waited for her outside the bedroom door when she was sleeping. When it was time for Sophie to potty outside, Buddy wanted to join her, and he impatiently waited for her to return. He seemed lonely when she went home - and had to sleep all day to recover from his courting efforts. Sophie played hard to get... Buddy was insistent with his intentions, and I think all that tail chasing must have worn him out.
Our honored guests traveled from Pennsylvania to our home in Virginia:
Alyssa was home for the holiday - I am always happiest when I am with my children (and I'm even happier when they let us take pictures):
All in all, this holiday was a day to remember and I would not change a single thing. Okay... I might change one thing: 20 lbs of turkey was a little much for seven people - I am still stuffed!
it sounds lovely! it must have been great to have your daughter home for the holiday
Posted by: pcsmart | December 03, 2008 at 07:53 PM
I'm glad you had a nice holiday with your family.
Posted by: Marla | December 03, 2008 at 06:44 PM
I am so happy to see some updates from you!!! Get on facebook & check in with me!!! ;-) I miss you, girlfriend!!
Posted by: Tiffany | December 02, 2008 at 04:52 PM
Your face says it all...it is good to see you smile!
I like Alyssa's darker hair color too.
Posted by: Nancy G. | December 02, 2008 at 04:18 PM
So glad you had a nice Thanksgiving with your family!! I can tell how happy you were in the photos!! And thanks for the book recommendation.
Posted by: keely | December 01, 2008 at 10:36 PM
Oh Kelly! You are your kids look fabulous!!!!
I'm so glad you guys had the best Thanksgiving - - ever.
Hugs and Love,
B.
Posted by: Pinky Z | December 01, 2008 at 08:38 PM
Wonderful! (Cracking up at the dog. :)
Posted by: Helena | December 01, 2008 at 08:04 PM
beautiful family pictures!
I hear ya on the turkey! We did turkey AND ham. I can't look at either for a very long time!
Posted by: slammie | December 01, 2008 at 01:29 PM