Sweet Traditions

We may act like a bunch of "turkeys" starting towards the end of November and well into December, but the memories we make along the way are just so much fun! Aunt Melissa brought the fun to Mom and Dad's this year at Thanksgiving with "crackers." And we had a great time playing card games like Cover Your Assets. 

Fitting in some sweet playdates with friends where the girls get to get "dirty" with cooking and painting makes the weekends extra special. 

These two goobers are good enough sports to indulge me every year in the annual hand-holding picture!! I know they hate it, but one day, we'll look back at these and realize just how short the years really are! 

Riley and Maggie have to take a picture by the snowman every year too. This year I should make a book that compiles these pictures into one place. Pretty soon, Riley is going to be as tall this guy! 

Hot cocoa and candy canes on the hay ride are a must each year at Penland and then it never fails that Zippy and Peppermint make their appearance at some point too (after the tree is decorated). This year, I got to have help hiding these little critters since the "elf was out of the bag". It was neat to see the kids' creativity and it gave me a much needed break too! 

Watching the USC / Clemson game over Thanksgiving weekend is always a good time with friends (especially when the Gamecocks get a win scoring 31 to 30 this year). Don't worry Tigers, you'll get 'em next time! :) 

Going to the Rock Hill Christmas Parade that kicks off the beginning of Christmasville is something we mark our calendars for too. The decked out vehicles, bands, and people-watching are some of my favorite parts. This year we got to have beverages at Legal Remedy before and while we watched so it was extra festive. 

Staying connected with the PNW crew is pretty important during the holiday season too. Having a beer over Zoom with my brother really helps make the distance more bearable. Check out Connor in the background! He's just a precious "little" pup! :) 

I know the days are numbered that these guys will go down inflatables together...but until they are, I'm going to soak it up every chance I get. Their smiles and squeals are just as entertaining as when they were toddlers! 

Getting "normal" posed pictures are kinda becoming a thing of the past as well, but that's okay! These goofy grins and smirks are just moments to keep on cherishing! 

Youth group on Sunday nights with Luke ended with an iceskating outing. Pastor Jeff at Oakland Presbyterian took over for awhile before the new guy, Eric, got hired. I'm thankful for the influence of Luke on the lives of these young boys and for the example he set for how to follow and love God well. 

A Hot Cocoa Bar is always a requested December Activity on our Advent Calendar. Maggie mostly just eats the sides, but Riley enjoys a true topping experience! 

 These moments in time are captured here in photos but the memories they hold in my heart will last forever! Well as long as I don't get Alzheimer's or dementia...but then again, maybe I can read these blog books and remember that way! :)