Friday Fave Five - December 4th

Woo-hoo! Welcome back, Fave Fives - I've missed you! I've had a lovely week, and since I only got back to blogging yesterday, this is the perfect place to catch up!

If you've had a nice week, and want to re-call five of your favorite moments or things, feel free to link up at Susanne's blog Living to Tell the Story!

1. Thanksgiving! (I know that's going back one day farther than I'm supposed to, but I haven't blogged about it yet!).
*The day started out with the hubby and I going to Mall of America to do the "Walk to End Hunger" to raise money for our local food shelves. It was such a fun way to start the day! We were able to turn in about $900 from our friends, and walk with several other friends from church - what an honor to have so many generous souls in our lives! *Then, we went to my parents' house for the day - we made our traditional centerpiece (Mom gives us a random object and we attempt to create something fun and attractive for the dining table)... It was a bit funny this year - but our middle sister was certainly in our thoughts, though she was far away! And after Dad shared a touching grace, we all named 10 things we were thankful for - an emotional and beautiful moment. We have so much to appreciate!(Yes, that's my sister, Emily's, face on the turkey... LOL)

(The beautiful china, silver, and crystal that comes out every year...)

(The hubby, me, and my littlest sister, Kayla.)

(Mom and Dad - aren't they cute?)

2. Thanksgiving #2! The day after Thanksgiving we head to Milwaukee to celebrate with the hubby's family. It was so nice this year! We were able to spend time with just his mom (which never happens), I got to help in the kitchen a little (which never happens), I got to go out in the evening with his sister and her boyfriend (I don't remember the last time I got to go out with the "grown-ups"), and we had a lot of fun with our now-teenage nephew!

3. Work has been fun, yet busy. I wasn't there on Sunday since I was with the in-laws, but I heard the things I helped plan and implement were received well - and have received several emails about how much people liked them! I've made some neat connections with some of our church members and visitors, and I'm excited about what we're up to! That feels new and refreshing...

4. The first Christmas party of the season was on Tuesday! Our book group ladies met up at a member's house for a festive and fun party - good food, beautiful home, sassy ladies, the dice game... LOTS of laughter and fun (and no discussing of books - ha!). I feel so lucky to be a part of this group - they lift my spirits every week!(This is Carol - she's always taking pictures of us, so I got her this time!)

5. Christmas decorations. I love Christmas - it's my favorite time of year. Our house is so cozy and warm... Here's a few of my favorites:(Our pretty little tree...)

(Our fireplace... stockings and all!)

(My little snowman... I have to re-glue his carrot nose on almost every year - but he's worth it!)

(Our beautiful Nativity set - my parents have helped us add a piece or two every year. I LOVE it!)

Things I am thankful for today:

1. A return to blogging!
2. A doctor I like and trust.
3. Cheery people at the doctor's office and stores!
4. Comfy clothes.
5. Naps.
6. Crafts shows.
7. Beth and Heather - fun friends!
8. Mexican food!
9. Free parking in the city!
10. A fun night with the hubby.