Saturday, December 6, 2008

Thanksgiving in Illinois, Chapter 2: Crowded House, Happy Hearts

Phil's parents' home filled up quickly -- it soon housed 7 adults, 5 children ages three and under, and often included Tom, Kim and their two girls whenever they were able to come over. It was a little crazy... a little loud... but a lot of fun! The whole family was able to come home for the holiday, and Max and Kay were great sports in allowing us to take over their space. A bonus was that their wonderful new kitchen greatly reduced the potential for claustrophobia, as people could hang out in there as well as the living and family rooms. It was fantastic! The kids had a marvelous time playing and being together 24/7.

Phil, the girls and I ended up all sleeping in the same room after a failed attempt at bunking Grace with her cousins. It seemed like a recipe for sleeplessness, but our nights went surprisingly well! Nora had her Pack & Play, Grace slept on a trundle bed (which was thankfully very low to the ground, as we woke up to her rolling off the bed several times!), and I cozied up with Phil on a twin daybed. I wasn't sure how we would do with such close quarters -- I love Phil and all, but I love my sleeping space, too! We were both so tired each night, however, that we slept relatively soundly. I guess exhaustion came in handy in this situation!

Our Thanksgiving gathering was large and enjoyable, and the food was delicious! Kay did an awesome job with all the dishes she cooked, and Patty baked a couple of yummy pies. It was a terrific meal and a wonderful day! What a blessing to be able to hang out with everyone for a few days. We did not want our stay to end!

Claire and Grace chowing down at the new breakfast bar

Nora and Eli/El/Eleazar -- only 8 weeks apart!

Taking a walk

The closest to a smile I could coax out of Eli. For some reason he would smile all day long until I pulled out my camera. Hmph. Good thing he's so darn cute.

I think she enjoyed her meal

For some reason we didn't take the time to put all the cousins on the couch for a picture. (*slap to forehead*) At least I have a few individual photos -- here's Abie at Thanksgiving dinner.

Tori mid-bite

Eden and her full-body bib. This girl eats like nobody's business.

1 comment:

The Meyers Family said...

I love the "slap to forehead" comment. :) Everyone is so cute!! I didn't have a chance to check out the circumfrence on Nora's thighs at Thanksmas, but if they are relative to her cheeks, I'm guessing they are HUGE - yummy!