Family Christmas

Yesterday we had family Christmas at Cathe's. As always it was a good turnout with yummy food and a white elephant gift exchange. We had a fun ride down in the new Suburban and the kids were quiet watching Arthur Christmas in the backseat. It was the perfect day until... at midnight we got stuck coming up our street. The roads were clear right up to our exit, where they implemented chain control. We pulled into the Safeway parking lot and Forrest begrudgingly put chains on the back tires. We attempted our street again, to no avail, so he ended up walking a mile to the house to retrieve his truck while the kids and I sat in the Safeway parking lot with the heater on. By the time all was said and done we made it into bed at 2:00a.m. Miraculously we made it up in time for church and the Christmas program.

We have had a lot of snow at our house, and Noah and Kaitlyn love to make snow angels.

This was a night that I made a yummy farmer's market dinner: naturally raised London broil, steamed broccoli, and oven roasted red potatoes.  It was so simple and delicious.  Anthony had thirds on the meat, this boy must need his protein.  I put on a Disney fairy movie on my laptop which made for a quiet meal.

"Cheese!"

More Snow and Christmas Lights

Another snowy day!  We expected rain and woke up to a little more than we bargained for.

My girls by the Christmas tree.

Christmas lights at Dovewood Court- this one's going out in the cards.

Love this one.

There was a talking Santa.

Yes!

11 Week Ultrasound and Graduation Day!

Friday was a big day- I went in for lab work, another ultrasound, and had my first prenatal with the midwives.  The babies measured 11wks 1dy and 11wks 4dys and had strong heart beats.  After reviewing my results, the IVF doctor approved my coming off medication and graduated my care to the midwives.  Finally in my element. :)

I had a couple of very sick days last week, which were caused by either pregnancy or the stomach flu, I'm not sure which one.  It's always hard to discern in pregnancy!  Either way I am grateful for the good health this week brings.  Overall I have had the best first trimester I have ever had in a pregnancy, with less than a handful of sick days.

My cravings have been all over the board, but I can tell you that I am definitely hungrier growing two babies.  From chef salads to fresh juice to Round Table pizza and homemade soup with farmer's market produce, I have been enjoying a feast of sorts.  Food is part of the celebration.

I cried watching an episode of Friends the other night (Phoebe was a surrogate.)  The hormones are strong and the emotions are not far under the surface.  On a conscious level I don't quite know what I'm in for but something inside me is processing the journey.  It's a blessed one at that.

Thanksgiving and November/December Randoms

Thanksgiving was lovely. We celebrated at Cathe's with a small group. The food was delicious and we were home at a decent hour, despite all the driving. 

Forrest maintained his tradition as designated turkey carver.  There were two turkeys this year: oven roasted and deep fried.

Forrest and the kids cut down a Christmas tree on a night that I was sick.  Last night we got around to decorating it, and it looks beautiful.  I love all the lights in and on the house.

Big news- I got a new Suburban!!  We came across a great find on Craigslist from a super generous family who was happy to pass it on to us.  It's an '05, leather interior, and all the upgrades.  We are loving it.

New suburban!

 

 

Chocolate pecan pie I made for Thanksgiving.  This recipe's definitely a keeper!  One of the best pies I've made.

My girls love to play dress-up.

The tiara I am trying to preserve for my girls' future weddings... if it makes it that long.

Family Christmas card photo fail- I don't like the layout. 

Mother-daughter... looking more like me every day if you ask me.