Week in Review ~ 11/27

What a week! It was very busy, which led to very tiring, but also very fun. You know you're awfully thankful when you celebrate Thanksgiving three times!

Sunday morning I got up and fixed a pumpkin roll. I hadn't fixed one since Avery was born and am always nervous as to how they will turn out. I think this was the first one that had no cracks, so I guess it turned out pretty good. We celebrated Thanksgiving at my parents' with my mom's family that night. Of course we had to go a little early so that Lolli and Poppa could get in some play time.



Avery looked super-cute in her turkey ensamble. Ned and Poppa, practical male shoppers, were pleased to hear that it reverses to plaid to be worn more than once.

A little storytime with Poppa...

...and some singing with Lolli.

The rest of the week moved right along with not much going on. Our realtor showed up at 6 pm sharp Monday night for the appointment that we thought was the following week. We were enjoying leftovers, Avery was covered in applesauce, and I was in my sweats. Ned did a quick sweep while I chatted with her, picking up things like the tampons Avery had dumped out all over the bathroom floor for the 2nd time that night. She stayed for about an hour and probably left thinking that she'll have her work cut out for her. I like predictability, calendars, schedules, and routines, so Ned and I were both very proud that I didn't break out in hives when the doorbell rang.

I got a great deal on a Little Touch Leappad with 4 books on the Facebook group Whatcha Got and met that mom Tuesday to pick it up. Another mom saw that I was purchasing this and had 3 more books and a carrying case. I'd say $20 for all of this is wonderful, especially since it isn't sold anymore. I'm still trying to decide if it's appropriate for Santa to leave used gifts, but these are in excellent condition. Santa is all about a deal!

On Wednesday we had early release from school, so I ran errands and went home to cook. Ned picked up Avery at the sitter's and then we headed to his parents' for Thanksgiving. I thought I would solve Avery's eating issues by feeding her before dinner and then giving her a little as we ate, but we didn't sit down at the table until after 7, and Avery's light meal had worn off. She gave Uncle Rob some smiles and had fun with his dog Toby. Lolli and Poppa came too which is always a good time. Avery is used to a 7:30 bedtime and we didn't make it. She did fairly well but was ready for bed after a day at Jen-Jen's. It was almost 8:30 before she got to bed. I didn't get any pictures as I stayed busy keeping Avery away from all of Mimi's treasures.

Even after her late night, she was up by 6:45 Thanksgiving morning. We enjoyed the parade, and Avery enjoyed it so much that she didn't need much morning nap. We did lots of playing with books and markers and battled a runny nose for much of the morning.

Always something fun under the couch. Sometimes it's that Doodie cat!

Can you spot Giraffi? She's using her camouflage.

Thanksgiving night we went to my dad's sister's house. It's always a fun gathering since my uncle's side of the family comes also. Neither Ned or I come from big families so this meal with about 17 people is as large as it gets. With all the people, it took Avery awhile to warm up, but she enjoyed the two sets of steps, the Christmas tree, and playing with Lawson who's a few months older. Dinner was again after 7 so Avery had many small meals. A snack trap of Cheerios provided distraction while I could eat, and Avery provided entertainment for those at our table. At some point she got her 2nd wind and was doing well when we changed in jammies and headed home a little before nine. While late bedtimes make me nervous, we are so lucky that our immediate family can be reached in about 30 minutes. We can do all the visiting we'd like and then go home to our own beds, and so many don't have that luxury.

Friday morning we had Christmas pictures scheduled. I was more than nervous about how they would go after 2 late nights. Avery saw no need in sleeping on the way there but did seem to get a good rest. We simplified and only did her Christmas dress, and the pictures Carol got are wonderful as usual. I can't wait to share once my Christmas cards have arrived at their destinations. Lolli took Avery home so that I could do some decorating and so that Ned and I could shop.

This is what the men in my house did while I put up the Santas.

And this is the Avery version of the Santas this year. The bookcase isn't big enough to hold them if I put all of them out, but since the bottom three shelves are within Avery's reach, I simplified. I absolutely made the right decision as these jolly figurines caught Avery's eye quickly. She knows exactly where to look if you ask her where the Ho Hos are. Now, whether or not we'll only decorate the top of the tree is another question.

Ned and I headed out to fill Santa's sleigh Friday night. Toys R Us was still busy but nothing we were wanted was on sale. Luckily we didn't need much because we both lost our patience. We found the last item we were looking for at Target where the atmosphere was a little more appealing. Avery is now done with the exception of a shirt from Etsy and another Giraffi for her stocking. I haven't started ANYONE else though! We enjoyed a delicous meal at Olive Garden before returning home. Lolli and Poppa brought Avery home and put her to bed.

I had a horrible headache today and stayed on the couch from mid-morning until early afternoon. Luckily Ned was home in between hunts and was able to take care of Avery. I was so upset that part of my vacation was spent on the couch feeling bad. After Avery's afternoon nap we pulled out some more things for Christmas and tried to do some toy rearranging so that we'll have a space for the tree. She and I had pizza for dinner, and Ned got home in time to kiss her goodnight. I have some more decorating to get to, but a warm Ghirardelli brownie is calling my name.

We're putting up the tree tomorrow and holding our breath that Felix doesn't reenact the fried cat scene in Christmas Vacation. Then, unfortunately it will be back to school and work. Thanksgiving break has gone by too fast, but we've got lots to look forward to and keep us busy.

16 Months

Slow down Avery! You are growing (and going) too fast! Avery turned 16 months on the 23rd, and I kept waiting to add some pictures and post. Pictures will just have to wait for later. Each month I think that things can't get any more fun and time can't move any quicker, but somehow both things happen.

We don't have any new height and weight reports this month, but Avery is starting to feel heavier. She's still struggling to fit into her 12-18 months and 18 months clothes, especially in the length department. Her 12 months and even some 6-12 months clothes are still fitting just fine. Shoes remain a size 4 (I hope) and diapers remain a 3.

Sleep habits remain about the same also with bedtime between 7 and 7:30. She usually sleeps until at least 6:30 am. She's been pretty good about 2 naps of 1 to 1.5 hours this month with a few days of bumps due to teething. I'm pretty sure that the days of 2 naps are coming to an end. I'm hoping to hold on at least through the holidays. Avery rarely looks tired during the day, so we nap by the clock. I'm hoping that the next baby can give me at least a yawn when it's ready for a nap.

Avery remains quite the eater as long as it's on her terms. Lately she heads right to her chair at Jen-Jen's, ready to climb up and eat breakfast. One dad jokes that he's never seen her not eating in the morning. Vegetables have made a comeback and broccoli/cauliflower with cheese, butterbeans, peas and carrots, and sweet potatoes are all acceptable. She's also had collards and cabbage. She's also eating chicken better, even when it's not in nugget form. Fruit is still a hit along with cottage cheese, yogurt, and cheese. She is still not a milk drinker and also does not care for green beans, ground beef, eggs, or foods with red sauce. Many things are deemed inappropriate before they even touch her lips. She feeds herself with a spoon well as is working hard on scooping items up. If she can't, she picks it up with her fingers and touches it to her spoon before eating it. Sometimes fingers and spoon work together. Avery cut a bottom tooth last week for a grand total of 8. We're really dragging out that process.

She is still a big chatterbox and is repeating more and more words that we say. One day she may pop up with something she shouldn't be saying. She talks, and does everything else, on her terms, so she's not going to say something when you ask her to. She has also started singing this month which is just hilarious. There are no words in any of her songs, but she knows how to draw her sounds out and includes high and low pitches. The talking had to take a backseat for a few weeks this month while she perfected her walking. We hardly see crawling now as she works on her running. She loves to walk around carrying at least one thing but forgets that if the object is big she should still be watching where her feet are going. My favorite thing for her to carry is books. She loves to bring books one at a time for us to read and look at. She still likes to climb but luckily has not attempted anything big or too scary. Her new slide is a hit and she's sure she can do it on her own.

Avery still loves her toys and also her odds and ends like markers and shoe boxes. She loves to slide boxes between her legs, position them just right, and try to sit on them. It's a bit tricky on her shoe boxes though! In the last week or so she's started stacking collections of things on the bookshelf. It doesn't look like I'll be putting Santas on the bottom three shelves this year so I won't have her help rearranging those. She also loves to peek under her crib, our bed, the sofa, etc. to see if she can spot Felix or one of us peeking from the other side. Sometimes she and Felix play fun games while he hides under the couch, and he seems to love it as much as she does.

Our little girl has become even more loving this month. She loves to come and give me big squeezes around the neck and does the same while I'm holding her. She is still a kisser, and her favorite targets are pets. She's also a wallower and rolls and climbs all over us while we're on the floor. Her most favorite time to do this is after dinner when everyone is home and on the floor. House and schoolwork can wait when there's a little girl to love on. No matter how mobile she is, those hands still shoot up for us to hold her at different times. She's usually pretty good about this but goes through spells (like after time at Lolli and Poppa's) that she wants to be held more. Avery loves her family but is still very much a mama's girl.

Hopefully I've hit on all the main things Avery is doing these days. As her mama I could go on forever! In this season of thanks we are so overwhelmingly grateful that Avery is ours. We have many things to look forward to in the upcoming holiday season and know that they will be even more fun and busy with our sweet girl.

A Saturday Snapshot

Here are the pictures that wouldn't post with yesterday's post. Evidently Blogger had issues with me loading all 5 at once.

Everyone needs rest and relaxation on a Saturday. Make sure to cross your feet.



Avery is loving this book these days. Good thing Santa is thinking of bringing the animal version.



There's always time for the Hot Dog Dance.



And always time for chasing Sammy.

Week in Review ~ 11/20

This week I definately felt like a little kid waiting for Santa. It was the LONGEST week ever! I'm ready for a break, and evidently my third graders are too. From the looks of their work this week, their brains were already celebrating turkey day.

The week got off to a good start with Ned and I being able to sleep in Sunday morning. Avery spent the night with Lolli and Poppa since we had the wedding to attend. I picked her up after her morning nap and got home in time for lunch. After a long afternoon nap, it was a mad dash to get groceries, do laundry, and finish school work. Sunday is often the only time I can go to the store without Avery, but I hate going then. We just may have to start making it a Saturday habit.

The rest of the week passed by uneventfully but s.l.o.w.l.y. Christmas gifts are starting to roll in, but I've only started on Avery, so I really need to get in gear (and get some money). Speaking of Christmas shopping, Ned wanted to clarify that the Bayou Cottage is the name of his favorite house plan. He was worried that it looked like he was asking for a cottage on the Bayou, and that may make his list a tad extravagant. Ha!

Avery and Ned got an unexpected day at home Friday because our babysitter had the stomach virus. I'm holding my breath in hopes that we all stay well. Avery's nose was a drippy mess Thursday and continued into Friday, but hopefully it's nothing more than teething or allergies.

Today (Saturday) Avery and I are enjoying a day at home. Duck season came in today, which is Ned's most favorite thing ever. At 4:07 this morning he was leaving our bedroom fully dressed and ready to go. I never heard his alarm which means he must have been awake with anticipation. It could be that he was still awake from the dog getting sick on the rug in the middle of the night though. That resulted in lots of huffs and puffs, lights being turned on, and so much carpet cleaner sprayed that I couldn't breathe. I kept my eyes closed to ensure I wouldn't be asked to help.

Avery and I ventured out to the grocery store this afternoon to get a head start on our holiday cooking. A snack trap full of Cheerios or puffs will now accompany us each time. I didn't have to do any entertaining, and the Hansel and Gretel-like trail wasn't too bad. We're getting ready for Thanksgiving at Lolli's is tomorrow night, and I made a corn pudding and watergate salad tonight while I cooked our dinner. Avery enjoyed the free access to the cabinets, pantry, and the rest of the house while I was scurrying around. She amused herself nicely with a wooden spoon, pots, and other oddities and was so good. Tomorrow morning I'll be tackling a pumpkin roll.

I'm so looking forward to the week ahead that I just don't know what to do with myself. A 2.5 day work week is a big help, but we've also got three Thanksgiving celebrations, Christmas pictures Friday, and on Saturday Ned will pull himself out of the woods so we can get away and shop. I can't believe we'll be bringing a 16-month-old to our Thanksgiving dinners! We are overwhelmed with blessings and are so looking forward to sharing meals and giving thanks with our families.

Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday!

*Sweet Avery pictures wouldn't load tonight.

Dear Santa

This little gem was waiting for me in my inbox last night.

Ned’s Christmas List

**Mountain Khaki’s Teton Twill Pants Size 35x30 Color Natural
**Bayou Cottage House
**Nikon Pro Staff 550 Laser Range Finder @ Dicks Sporting Goods
**Nice shop in backyard of Bayou Cottage House
**Lands End No Iron Pin Point Traditional Fit Size 17x34 Color Clear Blue / White Stripe -monogrammed on the pocket
**“Life is Ducks, Dogs, Decoys” DVD from Macks PW
**Thumbs up from Whitney to get a lab puppy for Avery
**George Bush’s new book
**Lacrosse AlphaBurly Sport hunting boots Style 200017 Olive Green in Color Size 11M @lacrossefootwear.com
**Plan a day to take Avery to the Waterfowl Park in Scotland Neck this spring
**Another weekend away with Whitney
**Ducks Unlimited Outdoor Fireplace to go on the patio behind our Bayou Cottage
**Gift certificate to Dance’s
**Duck hunting trip with Habitat Flats in Missouri
**New dress belt
**Berretta Extrema 2 Shotgun
**John Deere Tractor with implements

I laughed so hard that I just had to share. I should have known it was going to be good...the e-mail that this was attached to said "Don't laugh!" Please note that his wishlist includes a variety of item ranging from a DVD to a new house, with a belt and a tractor sprinkled in for good measure. I'm sure this rivals any list Avery will ever make.

In Ned's defense (if a 28-year-old can defend this) he likes to be surprised and always lists MANY possiblities. I pick the items that I like and that also fall in the budget we set. While all of these are things Ned would love, some of these things were included to be comical I'm sure. Santa won't be bringing the Bayou Cottage. We can hardly afford the plans!

I think what Santa really needs to bring is a shirt that says "Go Big or Go Home," because my hopeful husband certainly isn't afraid to dream big!

Week in Review ~ 11/13

It's been another fairly busy week with a super-busy weekend. With the time change Sunday, I was expecting an early wake-up call, but Avery slept until 7 am, which was actually 8 to her! That was quite an accomplishment. She then took a big morning nap, and I had to wake her when Lolli and Poppa came to visit. We had not planned to go out to eat with them, but the thought of Cracker Barrel was a big temptation, so off we went. After Avery's big rests she saw no need for an afternoon nap. That should have been a warning.

Naps were crazy all week. She had been very regular with 2 naps a day since she had been sick, so I'm glad we didn't take the morning nap away too early. Thursday was the only day she took 2 good naps. By mid-week we saw a bottom tooth breaking through, so hopefully that's the reason. I of course worried it was her ears again, and it's still a few weeks before we get them checked. Her walking also took off this week, so maybe she simply has no time for sleep. She's bringing books to me now which I just love. I'm hoping to raise a bookworm like I was (before baby).

Wednesday night Avery and I decided we needed some pizza since Ned was hunting. I don't know why I thought I could manage Avery and a large pizza as it was not a good choice. Our power liftgate was a huge help. Now only if there were power doors at the pizza place, on the car, and at the house! To make matters worse, we were parking at the road because our driveway had been sealed and couldn't even walk on the driveway. After that experience, I'll be keeping an emergency cash pizza fund so we can make the most of delivery.

On Thursday I got out of school early and went to Suffolk. Moms in the area have started a group on Facebook where they sell items they no longer want or need. I got Avery a Little Tikes slide for less than half of what it would have been new. It had been kept inside and is in great condition. We're keeping it in our basement family room and just need to get a large rug to put over the tile where we're going to put it. Deals aside, it was so nice to set off in the quiet car with beautiful leaves, good music, and a fountain drink. I managed to squeeze in a little shopping at Belk and got Avery some Christmas outfits for the babysitter's.

This weekend Ned was in his good friend Brandon's wedding. Friday we both hurried home so we could make it to the rehearsal. Mimi came to keep Avery, and she got a good report. We were pretty late getting home, like 10:30 late which is pitiful, and it's tough after a day at school. Lolli came to get Avery after her morning nap Saturday because she was staying there Saturday night. Ned left early for the wedding so I rode with our friends Lucas and Kristin. I went early so I could do some snuggling with baby Emerson. I always enjoy weddings and seeing the details each couple chooses. Of course, I think back to ours and how smoothly it went after Ned's crazy appendectomy 6 days before our big day. After that stress I'm sure I just didn't notice anything going wrong and was too busy having fun. Now, with a daughter, I think about us in that situation many years from now. Maybe Avery will decide like I did that her daddy doesn't need to give her away and omit that part also. Nobody was giving me away! Thankfully we've got a long time before then with many things to teach and instill in our little girl.

I'm hoping for a quick week this week since it's the last full week before Thanksgiving! Meals are being planned, Christmas lists are being made, and I'm getting excited (and poor)!

Here's the new slide! As you can see, she thinks she's a pro.







Her smile here could be a tad bit forced like..."Let's get this over with, I've got things to climb!"



We're ready for Turkey Day!

Wordless Wednesday

Week in Review ~ 11/6

Welcome November! Avery rang in the new month with...



some snazzy jeans....



deep thoughts....



pie-pie stealing from the diaper bag...

peek-a-boos

and a few minor house repairs!

This was the week of the big election, and sadly it did not turn out in Ned's favor. After a very low voter turn-out, he lost the election by 2 votes. In our district of roughly 600 voters, there were about 180 votes cast, and since Ned stood at the polls all day, he knows that some of the voters he was counting on did not show up. We were very disappointed but know that this is the direction our life is supposed to move in now. Avery and I now get Ned home an extra 2 nights a month, more during budget season. We also are able to move forward with plans on building without feeling that we will be tied here 4 years or that Ned is backing out of a commitment. We've had two plans picked out for awhile now, and this week we sat down and went over them and also looked for any other possibilities. Soon we'll review these with our builder to get a rough estimate of cost. We'll also be having our realtor come in for a rough estimate of what we can sell our house for. While I love the idea of a new house, I'm not exactly ready for that stress now. I have a huge fear of coming home one day to find out that Ned has sold the house, much like in Father of the Bride Part 2. Just like the election and everything else in life, things will fall into place.

It's hard to feel down in the dumps when you have a little Avery perfecting her Frankenstein walk and hugging you SO tight at every chance she gets though! We also raised our spirits Wednesday night by deciding to order a pizza and wings AFTER I had put dinner in the over. Pizza Hut should be commended for some very effective commercials!

Friday was a rough day at school, not due to student behavior. There are many jobs in this world where the customer/other person must always be treated like he or she is correct and must be treated with respect. Teaching certainly falls into that category! Ned and I had just had a discussion about this recently. Customers keep his doors open (and our lights on) but because it is a family business, he could give a customer a piece of his mind or refuse service, although I doubt he ever has. Teachers, and many others, don't have that luxury. One days like this, 2 thoughts always run through my head: 1) Why must I remain professional, calm, polite, and together while others spew nonsense everywhere? and 2) Is this my reward for giving 5 days of each week to someone else's child instead of mine? Of course, it isn't alway like this, but these kinds of days and the promise that they will more than likely happen again can really take the wind out of your sails. Thank goodness for collegues who are friends and a sweet family to come home to! We celebrated the end of not the best week with a dinner at Applebee's.

Ned hunted most of Saturday, and Avery and I stayed home and played. She was busy, busy as usual. I got it in my mind earlier in the week that I wanted to get to Hallmark this weekend to finally buy our Christmas ornaments. Once upon a time my ornaments were purchased the weekend that they debuted in July. Here we are in November though and it's about time to hang them on the tree. Avery and I have never run errands out of town by ourself, so I thought it was time to give it a try. Errands in town are usually the grocery store, with anything fun being at least a 20 minute drive. I also wanted to be really brave and try dinner out with just the two of us. Avery is very good in public, I'm just used to an extra set of hands. So after nap, we set off with the Christmas CDs playing. We visited Hallmark first, where the biggest challange was holding the basket, navigating the stroller with one hand, and keeping Avery's hands off the merchandise. She did great and seemed to enjoy the store and all the people. Our next stop was Belk where she patienly waited for me to try on and purchase 2 new pairs of shoes. Judging by what was in the store, my shoes need a make-over. Again, once upon a time, not only did I know what shoes were in style, I had them! I'd trade shoes for Miss Avery any day though. I'm tired of Ned complaining about these shoes though, but I hate to tell him that they'll be keeping a spot on the shoe rack. Our last stop was Chik-Fil-A. We did just fine ordering, getting a high chair, getting things to the table, and filling our stomachs. Our only glitch was a little ketchup on Avery's sleeve as we were leaving. This remains a mystery as Avery didn't have ketchup. It's so fun to have a little companion and I know it will get more fun (and possibly more challenging) as she gets older. I can't wait to see what we'll get into next summer.

She's been in bed awhile now and hopefully will not be thrown off by the extra hour of sleep tonight. I'm catching up on my soap while blogging and am getting ready to enjoy the yogurt parfait I brought home. Thursday is a half-day at school and I'm planning on going to pick up a deal for Avery I scored on the Facebook group Watcha Got? It seems to be kind of like Craig's List but mostly moms selling various items. This weekend is the big wedding weekend for Brandon and Brittany. We're excited to be a part of it, and the anticipation is growing as we wait to see if Ned's tuxedo pants will fall to his feet when he tries them on!

A Few More Tricks Up Our Sleeves

Our little 50s girl was up bright and early Sunday morning, apparently eager to get the Halloween fun started again. Maybe it was because she was up late, maybe it's because she wouldn't eat pizza for dinner, who knows, but she was not happy in her crib and didn't even make it until 6:30. I know that her mood drastically improved when Daddy got her up, because there was lots of noise as Mama tried to sleep in.

I had to keep the nursery at church and for once it wasn't a mad dash to get there. I commend parents with young children who are able to go each Sunday. It is all we can do to get in a morning nap, get Avery dressed and out the door, have her home when her lunch bell starts ringing at noon, and get down for another nap. Avery had lots of fun playing and climbing on every chair in the room. She also sat very nicely when we went into church for the children's sermon, which she did not do for me last time.



We rushed home for lunch, played for a bit, and then Avery took her afternoon nap. While she napped, I made Paula Deen's Gooey Butter Cake with pumpkin added. I think adding the healthy pumpkin really cancels out the 2 sticks of butter. The recipe is also delicious plain, and her cook book has lots of other variations.

After nap we picked up some chicken and headed to Lolli and Poppa's for dinner. Avery managed another huge meal of ranch potatoes and mandarin oranges. Chicken and green beans were tasted and quickly spit out. We got Avery all dressed again and loaded up into the wagon. She missed alot of the trick-or-treaters because we were eating but enjoyed seeing them while she got dressed. It was so fun to visit the same people that I did when I was small. The crowd was bigger this year because many towns trick-or-treated last night and lots came for round 2. It was still a good crowd and a great representation of small-town life. Avery was sure she was in a parade and gave all the other people and cars a hearty "Hi!" She clung tightly to 2 Butterfingers that she had taken from Lolli and Poppa's and basically turned them to mush. We still only visited a handful of houses and did much more talking than candy taking. Next year I'm sure we'll be going to every house.







After trick-or-treating we headed to the Baptist church for a party. There were so many people there that we only stayed for a few minutes. Next year Avery will be able to voice her opinion so I'm sure we won't be able to sneak away. It was just too crowded to move. We left the party and went back to Lolli and Poppa's to change into pajamas then headed home and put Avery straight to bed.



It was a whirlwind weekend but so, so fun. I love starting and continuing family traditions and of course seeing these things through Avery's eyes. We're pretty sure she's going to be expecting costumes, wagon rides, and candy each night this week.

Sweet November

Have you seen this movie? It's one I always get excited about if I stumble across it on TV. In addition to being a great love story, it's filmed in one of my favorite months. Here are a few other things I look forward to as we move into November.

*A successful win in Ned's city council re-election.

*A one o'clock release from school on Veteran's Day. What in the world will I do with myself in the 2.5 hours before I get Avery?

*Attending Brandon and Brittany's rehearsal dinner and wedding. Ned all dressed up in his tux will be an added plus.

*Having Avery's Christmas pictures done to use on Christmas cards. It took a long time for me to get the perfect picture last year, and Avery couldn't move. I'm calling in the professionals this year. Carol did some great work last year, and I'm excited to see what she can do for us. My favorite is the three children in blue. I may or may not have asked Carol to see that card last April. One can never be too prepared for Christmas! (Note: I wrote this several days ago and scheduled the post. After 2 nights of trying to get pictures of Avery in her costume, this decision is looking better than ever!)

*Decorating for Christmas. Lots of thought has already gone into this so that my Possible Dreams Santas and Hallmark ornaments are not subjected to any of Avery's (or Felix's) antics. Gates, fencing, and rope are not out of the question.

*Continued pumpkin baking. I stocked up on canned pumpkin last year when they said there could be a shortage. They're saying the same this year, so make sure you're prepared!

*Thanksgiving and all the food, family, and fun that comes along with it. I love the parade, the houses full of family, the days off school...I could go on and on! We certainly are overwhelmed with blessings and have so much to give thanks for.

*Christmas music and the start of my favorite time of the year.

Here's hoping November holds lots of sweet things for you!