Mid-November Shelby and I made our way down to Birmingham to go visit my mom,brother and sister and their families for Thanksgiving. It was our last chance for Shelby to fly for free before she turned 2 and a good time to get away from Vancouver since the weather is now cold,dark and wet most of Nov/Dec. Unfortunately, Scott couldn't come with us because of school. Thanksgiving in Canada is October 13th(Columbus Day)so life goes on as usual the last Thursday in November here. Even so, Scott somehow managed to have 9 people over for a good 'ole American Thanksgiving dinner celebration so he didn't feel left out. From what I heard,I think it went over well for the most part :)
In anticipation of our big trip, I had alot of anxiety about our flight, as Shelby was going to be in my lap. She ain't no tiny-tot at almost 32lbs and decided to join the exclusive terrible two's club a few weeks early, just in time for our trip. I could just see myself ending up on the evening news as one of those parents who gets thrown off a plane b/c their kid was too much of a "disturbance". I hardly slept the night before our flight!
Thankfully, she was a super-star on both flights and didn't cry one bit--not even one tantrum, hallelujah! It definitely helped to be prepared. Thank goodness for portable DVD players,sticker books, and let's not forget left over halloween candy! I also was extremely blessed to sit next to some decent people who traded seats with me in order to open up an extra seat for Shelby. It really helped for her to have her own space. Especially when she needed to get her wiggles out. If it weren't for that I'm sure you would've seen us on the evening news--lol.
Once we were safe and sound in Alabama, we spent most of our time low-key, just hanging out with my mom and family. It was important to me to just enjoy the time we had together with my mom and not worry about all the craziness going on in her life at the time. Without going into too much detail, due to unfortunate circumstances my mom will soon be moving out of the house that I grew up in. I moved into that house when I was 10yrs old and have a lot of memories there, especially of my dad who passed away in 2005. It's also the spot where Scott proposed to me in my living room over 6 yrs ago. I didn't realize how attached I was to that house until this last visit. I was quite overwhelmed the first night there as I was staying in MY old bedroom. I was caught by surprise at the mourning I suddenly felt for my mom and her loss, my own loss, and really our entire family's loss. It's a very strange feeling, but it's just a part of life I suppose. After all is said and done it's probably what is best for my mom and hopefully she'll be able to move on with her life. I know Heavenly Father is watching over her and it will all work out for the best.
Anyhoo--Sorry to get all mushy and emotional on ya....
We really did have a wonderful time in Alabama. I'm extremely grateful that Shelby and I were able to visit my mom and family. It was really a blessing see everyone and show her where I grew up. Thanksgiving dinner (or "the last supper" as my mom half-jokingly called it) was held at the house of course and was a huge success. Nothing makes ya feel better than eating, eating and more eating :)
Being at my old house made me especially aware of all the blessings I've been given throughout my life. I have so much to be thankful for--all the LOVE in my life, my forgiving husband and sweet daughter, our health, our families, our dear friends and neighbors, plenty of food, shelter,clothing...the list could go on and on but I think you get the point. :)
I hope that everyone had a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
Now for some pics!Check out the photo album from our trip in Sweet Home Alabama
**Click on any pic to view pics in full and watch the video clips**
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