Beach Memories

What is it about the beach that makes you feel so relaxed and happy, giving you the feeling that everything will be alright?  My family had the perfect end to our San Francisco day, spending just about 30 minutes at Ocean Beach.  We got there right at sunset, and the kids loved walking through the water.  Eli loved feeling sand for the first time, and just loved playing in the water!  Unfortunately, Eli and Annie went out a little too far and when the tide suddenly came in, they each got knocked over.  Even though they were cold and wet, they wouldn't stop smiling!  My sister, Emily, and her family had to leave right before we went to the beach, so sadly they missed out on this part of the day.  The pictures say it all...

Oh, San Francisco!

We are in love with San Francisco! 

What a fun, diverse, and just absolutely gorgeous city!  I think seeing the Golden Gate Bridge was one of the activities I was the most excited for.  Like most girls my age, I was a huge Full House fan, and because of that, have always wanted to go to San Francisco!  

We started the day off at Pier 39, enjoying the different shops, sea lions, seeing Alcatraz, and a carousel ride for the kiddos.  We ate a yummy lunch at Boudin Bakery, where Kyhle was so excited to have a Clam Chowder Bread Bowl.  Being the day after a holiday and a weekend, the streets were unbelievably crowded, but we were still able to get a lot done.  Unfortunately, we forgot to charge our camera the night before, but luckily Adam and Beth let Kyhle use their camera all day.  He was lovin' it!  (Be prepared for some serious picture overload!)

We then walked through the streets, making our way to Ghirardelli Squre.  Oh, talk about yummy!  They gave out free samples of their peppermint chocolate, and we enjoyed some amazing ice cream sundaes and milkshakes.  We drove our way up to Lombard Street, but sadly, there was such a long line to get there we decided to turn around.  We loved our time in the city, and it is definitely on our list of places we would like go to back and do more activities.  'Til we meet again, San Fran! 

A California Thanksgiving

For the first time in a few years, my family was all together for Thanksgiving!  We all met up at my brother's beautiful home in Rocklin, California for a few days of fun, food and family time.  My sister-in-law, Jeri, was the perfect hostess, and impressed us all with her delicious meal, and how she made it look effortless!  

We loved being able to sit around the table together, and have 8 little ones running all over the place.  It is sad living so far away from most of my siblings, nieces and nephews, but when we get together like this, it makes it all worth it!  It is so fun to catch up, and be given all the hugs and kisses we've been missing.  

I am so grateful for my entire family, and the relationships we have with each other.  I am grateful that even though we are separated, we stay connected through phone calls, text messages, and video chat.  (SO thankful for video chat!)  I am grateful for my parents who helped pay our way to get out to California, and let us share a hotel room with them to save some more money.  I am grateful for all they have done for us since we've been married.  They are such great examples to us, constantly showing their love, support, and friendship.  I am grateful for Gwen, Zach, Annie, Tori, Luke, Noah, Holly, Ben and Eli and the different relationships I have with each of them.  They all fill my heart with so much joy and love, and I am so blessed to be their Aunt.  

Our First Thanksgiving

Kyhle and I were able to host our first Thanksgiving together this year with his family.  Since we were going to be in California for Thanksgiving day, we held dinner with Kyhle's family the Saturday before.  I am happy to report that it was a success!  We had such a great time with everyone, and I really enjoyed playing the roll as hostess.  His mom, step-dad, brother, and a friend joined us for the yummy meal and good conversation. 

Of course my amazing mother came to my rescue, meeting me halfway to give me dishes, decorations, tablecloth, napkins, and other necessities.  I would not have been able to host without her help.  Thanks, Mom!  

Kyhle was the lucky one who got to deal with the turkey, though he was not looking forward to "cleaning it out."  It turned out delicious and he definitely earned bragging rights!  Proud of my love! 

Our side dishes included: Mashed potatoes, stuffing, rolls, my Grandma's noodles, sweet potato casserole, and pumpkin pie!  I must admit, I was pretty proud of myself, and it boosted my confidence in the kitchen!