Thankful on Sunday

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday (right close to Halloween and Mexican Independence Day when in Mexico). But really, I love good food and I love cooking and there's not really any other holiday that brings those loves together better. And like Marge says, they are even BETTER with your family and friends. Having recovered from food and pie coma, here is current my thankful list.
1) My mom and rick and their willingness to drive the 10 hours to get here and to fill the house with fun, lively, yummy spirit.
2) My husband and all his wild hair, sweetness, thoughtfulness and the ability to make me feel beautiful despite my thinning, unbrushed hair, the zits, and the new waistline. Oh! And he's a great dad and partner in this job of parenthood.
3) My baby is so healthy and beautiful that her pediatrician can't stop exclaiming it during her check-ups.4) That one year ago we had no plans for a baby and had no idea I was pregnant at the time and yet now it feels impossible that she hasn't always been here.
5) My mom for helping me complete a sewing project this weekend (she sewed, she instructed and she held baby while I sewed). Not only are they so comfortable (Marge, you must make a pair), but the complete feeling of having completed a sewing project and loving it is more satisfying that I can describe.
6) My new "sheet" pants. Pattern from Amy Butler's In Stitches and the idea of using a sheet from Soulemama and A friend to knit with. They are so right, these are incredibly comfortable and the sheet is perfect. Plus, I spent $0.75 on the sheet. Maybe these should be called "recession lounge pants". I want to make another pair. I want to make everyone a pair!
7) I get to stay home with my little baby. I get to watch her wake up peacefully next to me and spend the mornings with her. Mornings are important, those are her happiest. Which makes sense, after all, we'd all be happier if we got 12 hours of sleep. So I'm glad I get to share those with her rather than someone in childcare get that time. I'm so lucky and thankful for that time.
8) Our little "Billings" tradition of friends coming over after their own family dinners to drink and be merry (and maybe catch a 2nd or 3rd meal) with us. Such a nice way to top off the day and it doesn't involve football.

There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort

So I am guiltily hangin' out in my jammies ALL DAY LONG.

Sue and Dan gratefully delivered my favorite coffee and croissants this morning before heading back to Billings, I spent over 2 hours on the web cam with my entire family this morning from Seattle, and for the past few hours I have been cuddling in bed with Dylan, letting her breastfeed and laugh and devoting ALL my attention to her (OK at least until I started writing this post). Why, you ask, is this laden with guilt? because I am biting the bullet and trying to wean her from night feedings tonight so that we both can try to sleep more than 45 min at a time.

So wish me luck. As she giggles herself silly on my boob right now, all I can think is...

I'm sorry DD.

I'm sorry you're kicked out of the bed, I'm sorry you are so cuddly, I'm sorry you would rather just suck on my boob all day long, I'm sorry you're sister beats on you after lowering my guard with kisses, I'm sorry you still require boob to lull you back to sleep, I'm sorry that with each passing day I realize this may be the last time I will experience {insert wonderful baby things} , I'm sorry that other people will let you down in life, and most of all I am sorry if I EVER hurt your feelings (especially tonight) ...know that mommy always loves you and this too shall pass.

Talkin' Turkey

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.
— John Fitzgerald Kennedy
As I wait patiently for my first Turkey (free-range from the Hooterites) at 2 pm on Thanksgiving, this quote strikes me as something to strive for. As much as I pride myself on being greatful to others, I want to make sure that I instill this trait and lead by example for my children.
I also hope I pass onto my children the following about celebrating the holidays:
1) Holidays (and large meals) are ALWAYS better with close family and friends.
2) You can ALWAYS have more than one cook in the kitchen, and take advantage of the wisdom of smarter, more experienced (note I did not say "old" Sal and Sue) chefs.
3) You make the hostess (or host) feel so much better with genuine compliments (thanks Newt).
4) 2 year olds who eat too many chocolate turkeys like these...

have VERY strange poop (and lots of it!).

5) 9 month old belly laughs are so contagious!

6) Never hesitate to call your mom for consult...on anything.

7) When your husband yearnfully kisses you in the kitchen and wants a little of your time, even if you have a houseful of guests, kiss back passionately.

8) Thanksgiving is ALWAYS a time to wear elastic!
Happy Holidays! Thanks again to my fantastic in-laws for another enjoyable visit (and for cooking, cleaning, laughing, playing games and mostly just being here)!