First Family Christmas Tree

Spending the first 10 years of my life in Minnesota and Virginia, I have many childhood memories of cutting down our family Christmas tree. And they are great memories. It was such a wonderful family tradition. (and my husband knows that I LOVE traditions!)
Instead of putting up my fake (from the thrift store..ha) Charlie Brown Christmas tree this year, I started a new family tradition. There is a tree farm a mere 5 minutes from my parents house outside of Winchester, VA and we found a perfect (for us) wind damaged $20 tree. What an experience, cutting it down and then driving 2 hours to get home! I hope to go every year.

First family photo in a long time. See the baby bump? And Wy's wet eyes? He cried when dada cut down the tree!

Checking out the wind damaged trees!

Is the tree too large? Too small? Too wind damaged?!

Do you have any Christmas family traditions? This book might help you find some...

Apple Trees in Fall

This scene is only a few miles from my parents home. I made my dad pull over when we drove by. Of course, I miss summer and spring but these apple trees in fall are so beautiful.

Thanksgiving

Tim and I had a wonderful time at my parents log home in the mountains. It was quiet, restful, relaxing, fun...full of football games, amazing food, fall decor, deer watching, Macy's Thanksgiving parade watching, and playing with Mr. Wy outside. It was just what this pregnant mother needed. Thank you, Jesus, for this great family home. And thank you for a happy, healthy family. I have so much to be thankful for.

Didn't my mother make our Thanksgiving meal beautiful?! (and gluten free/dairy free too!)

Neighborhood Fall Market

My neighborhood, a mere 15 minute drive to Capitol Hill, has the best neighborhood community markets on Saturday mornings. Yes, communities still exist. I love it.

Pies Pies and More Pies

Tis the season to eat pie!
Yesterday my office (the Senate Chaplain's office) hosted our 17th Annual Thanksgiving Celebration for Senate staff and guests in the Capitol. A Thanksgiving meal was too much for our small budget so we held the celebration after lunch and served pies and coffee.

Mom's Day Off