So I’m not exactly setting any records on keeping up here.  I’ll be honest.  This pregnancy is so hard.  And complicated.  And now that my doctor has informed us that Baby will undoubtedly arrive early, I feel incredibly unprepared.  Yet, forced to rest.  Which is not all an easy thing for someone like me to do.  

The holiday season is upon us and my heart is full of thanks.  

Oh.

So.  

Thankful.  

As a family, we made something new.  A Thanksgiving tree.  I sent the girls out to gather twigs and branches from the yard.  I found the idea on an adorably inspiring website (www.aholyexperience.com) and printed out colored leaves with Scripture verses, each featuring thankfulness.  (You can find the template here:  Thanksgiving tree.)  I “laminated” each leaf with clear packing tape for posterity’s sake, punched a small hole, and tied with a bow.  

I read them throughout the day.  We read them together at meal times.  And we think about thankfulness.  New.  Traditions.  I hope to continue this each year.

I have so much to be thankful for.  Always.  But I am especially thankful this year.  At this time last year, we were in limbo, having just moved once, and uncertain of our next imminent move.  Our family is so blessed to now own the home of our dreams.

Baby’s latest pic!

I am thankful for my family.  My girls are sweet (all 4 of them).  My hubby is mine.  And we are so happy. 

I am thankful for good friends who are generously helping me out during this difficult pregnancy.  They bring meals for my family, surprise me with treats, and help take care of my little darlings.  

I have prayed incessantly that I would be able to spend the holidays at home and not in the hospital.  And God heard.  These are the first in our new home.  We are making memories.  Sweet, sweet memories.  I am completely thrilled to be hosting our first Thanksgiving here.  The dishes are prepared.  (And tempting.)  The house is clean.  (Well, mostly.)  And I have probably spent too much time on my feet today.  (Please, don’t tell my doctor.)

We baked all day.  We made Pumpkin Coffee Cake.  The little girls helped.  It smells amazing.  And if it’s a hit tomorrow, I will definitely be sharing the recipe here later.  (Oops.  Did someone sample that cake?  I’m sure it wasn’t the starving pregnant lady…)

And here are the pies.  Yes, the crust looks too perfect.  They are store-bought.  But it couldn’t be helped.  I really am trying to be good and stay off my feet so shortcuts are sneaking their way into my kitchen for the time-being!  Peanut did an amazing job helping me.  (Isn’t she gorgeous?)  We had a beautiful time.

We also made 6 dozen homemade crescent rolls.  Give or take.  Can’t wait to see my family tomorrow.  Hope your holiday is beautifully savored with a side of coffee and hearty helping of laughter and good company.

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

Love & Coffee.