Thankful

As I worked on the photos for this post, Anni played on the floor behind me.  She began to whine, the whine that you know needs attention.  So, bending down to the floor, I stroked that fluffy down on her head.  Immediately, her eyes fluttered.  30 seconds later, she was asleep in my arms.  And even though she didn't need it, I sat in the rocking chair and held that heavy, comforting weight of a sleeping baby.  I was thankful.  Thankful that the nugget that caused me to spend most of last year's thanksgiving outside for fear of the deadly oven smell was trying sweet potatoes and grinning to everyone who passed by this year.  And even though the rest of today has made me want to run screaming out of the apartment, I am so thankful for this year, for my husband and baby and for our family that has been there through the frantic, worried phone calls, as well as the joyful ones over things others might find trivial.

This thanksgiving was wonderful.  Daniel and I thoroughly enjoyed our second Thanksgiving and getting to share it with our nugget.    

 This is how Anni "crawls."  When she really wants to move, she starts working her arms and legs so hard only her little tummy is left on the floor!

We even got a holiday outfit for the little one.  I adore it and as it is in my sister's favorite color, it made me smile even more. 

 It was just as good as it looks...

 The first attempt at sweet potatoes was mildly successful.  They needed to be pureed more, and she did her usual "new food freakout," but she ate most of them!

 Despite the fact that her "Stranger Danger," alert went off with her uncle at first, she quickly warmed up to him when he proved himself snuggly and willing to walk with her.  I loved how wonderful he was with her! 

 The joy of sweet, sweet, dessert wine.  It catered directly to the fact that I am the girliest of all drinkers... the sweeter my drink the better.

And what could be better than a bath amongst the pots and pans and pies at Grandma and Grandpa's house?

 Thanksgiving Day was followed by Thanksgiving weekend... which brought with it beautiful friends.  There was even some proverbial whipped cream on the pie in that they are both incredibly talented musicians.  Anni's love of music was wonderfully filled by their music.

 I love Anni's slightly shy but intently listening face in this one.  Emily sang her a beautiful Celtic lullaby... if you want to hear some of her lovely music - check out her facebook page.

And even more goodness followed that weekend... with a bridal shower honoring this lovely bride of this lovely couple (too many lovelies - they really are).  I am so excited to be photographing their wedding this New Year's Eve!

 

So thankful.