Thanksgiving & Joey's (Early) Party

While I'm sure everyone is already into Christmas mode, I thought I'd give a little update on how our Thanksgiving was up here in Michigan. Grandma and Grandpa Meinhart and Uncle Matt arrived late on Wednesday night, so the kids woke up Thanksgiving morning with visitors. Uncle Mark and Aunt Sarah were also around so they came over as well. We relaxed and caught up in the morning and early afternoon and then got to work on dinner. The preparations were actually quite fun, with everyone being involved and lending a hand.


With a little coaching and only one break to watch and instructional YouTube video, Jon successfully carved his first turkey.




No, we didn't have snow this Thanksgiving. The guys were sporting the hats that Uncle Dave and Itxaso picked up in Peru, while Marie tried on her cute headband.


Friday morning, Marie was back at work helping to frost and decorate cupcakes for Joey's first birthday party. Grandma and Grandpa Shibata and Aunt Jess drove up from Ohio and were able to spend most of the day with us. The kids loved all the attention!


Joey was a little uncertain about the cupcake and though we had practiced, was unable to blow out his candle. Marie to the rescue! He didn't really eat the cupcake, he only smashed it and licked his fingers a couple of times. Marie was also a big help with opening presents. They have both enjoyed the new toys and we've gotten lots of practice sharing. Marie frequently corrects herself saying, "I'm playing with my...I mean Joey's...new [fill in the blank]." Bless her heart.










On Saturday, we hung out around the house again and were able to head outside for awhile. It is sometimes a struggle to get Joey all dressed up (recall his dislike for putting on clothes), but once he gets outside he generally loves it. We played on the swing and slide long enough to get their noses cold and cheeks nice and rosy. Marie did inform Uncle Matt that he should have been wearing pants.



We hope your Thanksgiving was as great as ours and that you are having a blessed Advent season!