Thanksgiving & Tree Hunting!

Running a bit slow on posting but this will catch me up! John & Lindsey got in late Tuesday (after their usual 12 hour drive) and we relaxed by the fire with some wine and conversation. Ty & Jerilyn along with Steph, Jeff & kids all arrived Wednesday afternoon. Lindsey and I spent most of Wednesday making pies and 'assembling' as many dishes as possible - listening to Christmas music of course.

Steph brought the puppies (& mom) up for the night.

Jeff had to work on Friday so they returned from

their field trip to tell the other dogs about their big

adventures. Simon, the cat/dog, enjoyed the company.

We had Thanksgiving dinner late in the afternoon so had a very relaxing day

preparing dinner and visiting. As usual our crew of all ages chipped in.

We borrowed some six foot tables from our neighbor, Gail, and

put them end to end in the living room. We have 'outgrown' the

dining room - a happy situation!

Ty, Jerilyn, Audrey, Jackson & Natalie enjoyed some

outside time as the sun was starting to set.

Natalie looks like a little pink rose on the porch swing

doesn't she?

The big dogs were just a little too big for

one little girl.

Almost missed Caleb on this shot. We have so very

much to be thankful for!

Had to take a little mood shot minus the flash

After we cleaned up it was time for blocks and cars and toys -

some of which used to be played with in Grandma O'Donnell's

living room.

I LOVE all this commotion!

Hey Nana - is that your camera?

Natalie is looking a little tired - thank heavens no one

took a picture of me!

As is tradition the next day we met up with David & Erin Beauchamp

on the way to the tree farm. We had lots & lots of toddlers to

help us pick out just the right trees.

Jeff had to work Friday morning so Seth & Noah took on

the task of helping pick out and cut down their tree. Here

Noah is helping Papa.

Steph, Katie, Seth & Noah perusing the selection

Caleb was one sick little boy with a cold so we took

turns cuddling with him. Here Aunt Lindsey takes her

shift - you can see how much she hates it!

Katie with big gloves and a little pine cone - did I mention

it was really cold?

Our Texas in-law, John, was really enjoying the chill

and a great help loading trees

Ty was doing his share - not just lying around

having a good time!

Don't know who took this but it is such a beautiful

shot of David's oldest Solly

Here Dad (David) is giving a lift to his

youngest, Joey

Ryan & Katie victorious on the trailer

Papa & Natalie spending a little

quality time together

Katie & Audrey really enjoy spending

time together - love the pink cheeks

We brought the long trailer for the 'big hunt'

and, boy, did it come in handy. All the guys, big & small,

helped load trees up.

Everyone got their ideal tree for 2010

and it was time to head to 'checkout'

A very kind fellow tree hunter stopped long

enough to record the successful conclusion of our hunt.

Before Dave & Erin headed back we made a drive to

Simpson Park where the city does the prettiest light

display. Lots of light 'sculptures' and huge trees. This

shot was taken thru a small bridge covered in lights.

Dave & Joey enjoying the sights

Saturday we started decorating the inside and the

tree. Many hands make light work!

These are my Christmas angels!

Katie's favorite 'tree partner' was John - I

don't think he minded

It still takes my breath away sometimes

when I see Audrey just going about normal

family activities - Thank you Lord!

Seth & Natalie checking out the angel trumpet

Natalie was pretty sure she could put

the star on top of the tree

Little boy with a toy soldier - timeless!

Steph & Natalie picking out the perfect

spot on the tree

My Mom bought one of these skating rinks years ago for

each one of us girls - and our kids & grandkids love them.

Katie had a special request to get this set up before

they had to go home Saturday night.

Noah & Jackson checking out the ornaments -

Jackson was very good about the 'one finger' gentle touch!

So many headings for this one:

falling at the feet of Christ -

listening for the train -

but actually just one really, really

tired little girl.

As usual we had a wonderful, hectic, loving weekend

which left everyone pleasantly, but totally ready to chill.

Believe it or not we had a tornado north of Chillicothe

the Monday AFTER Thanksgiving - gotta love Missouri!