Back in the Saddle Again

For over a month I've been walking past my dark and lonely sewing machine. I think the business of preparing for the holidays coupled with an unexpected lack of inspiration made for a sad little sewing hiatus. But no more! The temps today are supposed to start out in the 20's, so I knew I had to get crackin' on the satin-lined hat I'd always wanted to make for Lila. Not even naps ruin her curls more than a short bout in an unlined hat. Last winter I even had mini-debates in my head as to whether it was really cold enough to warrent a hat...perhaps Lila could just go without and thus save the hairstyle I spent hours creating??? I'm not proud of having had those thoughts, but there it is. I spent a significant amount of time on Lila's hair and it's soul-crushing to see all of my efforts thwarted by a tiny fleece hat.

My first attempt turned out lovely, but too small for my girl. Thankfully, Elijah volunteered to model for me! Isn't he such an agreeable boy?

Tear your eyes away from that gorgeous face to notice the lovely satin lining!

Of course, nobody deserves dino spikes more than my girl.

I did make another, larger version for Lila last night. I hope to get some pics after she wakes up this morning...stay tuned!

Thanksgiving was busy but family-filled, which is just how I like it. Auntie Steph & Uncle John braved the crappy weather to come and run the Flying Feather Four Miler with me on Thanksgiving morning. The most exciting part, though, was Lila running her very first race ever! I ran with her and coached her through her mid-race wall as she exclaimed, "Mommy, I'm exhausted!"

My cousin was in town meeting his new in-laws and we were thrilled that he, his wife and son were able to come over on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Lila followed the two older boys around all evening, thankfully not really understanding that they were desperately trying to avoid her. Nothing is less cool to a 6 and 8-year-old boy than a very excited 3-year-old girl.

Lila requested that I take a picture of her sad face. Awwwww.

Thankfully, she recovered quickly.

Elijah discovered the broom!

Lordy, that face! Those eyes! The drool! Yep, teething is still in full effect.

I was thankful for so much this Thanksgiving, it's hard to put it all into words. There was one moment where my house was completely filled with family, everyong was talking, laughing, eating, kids running around screaming and having fun...my heart was (and still is) full of happiness and gratitude.