We had a really great, really busy Thanksgiving this year. Of course, we traveled south, but we headed to Birmingham, AL first to visit with JD's family. There, we got to meet our new niece, 4-month old Shiloh. Michael really enjoyed Stephen and Lindsey's dog, Dierk, too.

 
 Our sweet boy traveled really well, although when we got back home Monday, he was so happy that he started laughing.

 It was wonderful to see JD's older brother, Phil, and his wife, Nim. It's been too long!

 
 Michael didn't really know what to think of Shiloh, but he tolerated our attempts to get some pictures of them together.

 It was nice that our two families were able to spend some time together as well. Michael, of course, was so excited to visit with my parents' two cats, Callie and Rosco. I'm not sure they felt the same way.

We're in town for a week and a half now before Michael and I head back down for Christmas. It's a crazy time of year!

The past couple of weeks have actually been nicely quiet. I guess things are gearing up for the big holiday season. Here are the boys enjoying some TV time (who knows what they're watching: it could be Gold Rush or Dora the Explorer!).

 This past Saturday morning, we went to the indoor Thanksgiving Farmer's Market. The whole town showed up, and it was a blast. I've been missing my Saturday morning almond crossiants.

 Precious boy.

 Is that Elmo on my feet?

 Saturday night, we celebrated JD's 31st birthday with dinner and a roller derby match. Great fun, great friends! I think Kyle's trying to figure out the rules in the back...

 Somehow, Michael ended up with a Daffy Duck balloon that was almost as big as him. Since he wouldn't put it down, we all got wacked with this balloon all night.

We're leaving for Birmingham today for Thanksgiving. Can't wait to see the family!

I'm kinda amazed that fall is still here, but we sure are enjoying it. Michael loves to crunch around in the leaves. It's been busy around here lately: I'm still applying to jobs and working on a conference paper. JD has had to work a lot lately; he's in Indiana tonight. But we're really looking forward to the holidays and the chance to visit our families. It's been way too long.

Halloween 2011

We had a great Halloween this year. JD carved us a cool pumpkin that looked scary at night and friendly during the day! It shocked Michael a bit.

 

Michael was the most adorable garden gnome that's ever been sighted.

I was Ms. Academia: beautiful and brilliant! JD was an award-winning Gene Kelly from Singing in the Rain. And I do mean award winning. He took the prize for best costume at the Halloween party Friday night.

 Beth and I tried on some candy teeth.

 Michael eagerly awaited kids at the door who thought he was the cutest thing!

 Group shot 2011.

I think part of JD's award was for his convincing heel-click.