Many Thanks

Happy Thanksgiving to all family and friends near and far. We were super excited to be celebrating this year as a newly married couple. Family is such an important aspect in our lives. It was bittersweet not being able to see Josh's parents this year. Holidays are always hard to celebrate once you have a partner in crime.

Since Josh's parents live out of state it wasn't too hard to decide where to go. We were definitely not going to cook a turkey and all of the goodies for ourselves so we spent some quality time with my folks. The holidays are getting harder every year it seems. People stress over where to go, what to bring, and then feel guilty for over-eating.

Training for Basic has definitely given me a new perspective to how I look at this crazy time of the year. First and foremost I have learned to count my blessings and lean in to God's hands a little more with each passing day. There is a plan for these newlyweds somewhere...

We always seem to try to squeeze a little visit here and there. Dinner at one parent's place, pie at the other, more pie and leftovers at a friends place. Can we just throw together another wedding "Thanksgiving" style?

Being a gluten is all well and good. Splurging and spoiling myself with some comfort food is nice, but I have to say, I was very proud of myself this year. Not only did I portion out my food but I took time to actually enjoy it. Most of us fore go the breakfast and lunch because we are just so busy with cooking. It is easy to ignore that food baby brewing in our bellies and by the time the main course is served we lose all control over our manners and get elbows deep in to the mashed potatoes.

 As much fun as we have driving all over creation to expand our bellies, this year was a success. We stayed at one place, ate, napped and had a super delicious Nutella pumpkin cheesecake made by yours truly and the cousin.

While those 200+ calores felt AMAZING to eat, we did our fare share of burning those babies off with some shopping! That's right guys, Black. Friday. Shopping. The crowds were rowdy and the lines were long. We killed everyone with kindness? All I can say is you attract more bees with honey than vinegar...plus when you save $199 at Kohls on fabulous deals, you can't help but smile from ear to ear.

Okay let's get to the point of this jabbering. My point is, I am thankful for having such a wonderful family to spend the holidays with. There are people out there in depressing situations who need a little love this holiday season. Amidst all of the confusion and decisions, I know I can always count on them. (The NEW and old ones) May your bellies be full and your spirits be bright this year. Don't stress over the little annoyances of money and gift giving. It's the thought that counts and handmade is ALWAYS better than store bought. (unless you are like me and suck/lack the creativity gene) Enjoy your time with family or close friends this season! Happy Holidays!

Oh! and here is Josh thoroughly enjoying his Black Friday Shopping adventure. 30 minutes in line at Starbucks was oh-so-worth-it.

 -Mrs. Nystrom