A memorable Thanksgiving

This time last year, I was so sick from being pregnant that I dreaded Thanksgiving. This year, I couldn't be happier for this little guy that's joined our family. We love him! 

We enjoyed the holiday with Aaron's parents. I let Eli suck on celery and it kept him entertained for the afternoon. 

Considering we don't have cable or even the basic channels hocked up on our TV at home, football also kept the little guy entertained. 

Aaron decided weeks ago to try frying our turkey {for the first time in his life} for our dinner. I really should have more faith in his cooking abilities. I'll admit I was nervous that we may be celebrating Thanksgiving dinner without a turkey, but it turned out so great, I don't think I can ever have a baked turkey again in my life. 

Eli sported his John Deere shirt and boots to show his gratitude for all the hard working farmers out there. 

We had one pie per person. Kind of crazy. Kind of awesome. I made the Oreo pie down there on the left. {I'm not a huge pie fan, but I can never say no to Oreo anything.}

This was Eli's reaction when I told him it was finally time to toss his little-pumpkin-friend-he's-had-since-Halloween in the trash so we could bust out the Christmas decorations. He cried for half a second and has been mesmerized by the Christmas lights ever since.

We visited Santa's Wonderland {aka Bass Pro Shops} on Saturday and Eli was happy to finally meet Santa! In fact, the first thing he did was grab Santa's white beard. Sorry about that Mr. Clause. {Thanks for the tip, Alex! I couldn't agree more.. BPS is our new favorite family tradition. Free photo with Santa + Christmas crafts and a train? Yes. Yes. Yes. And my husband was smiling all day too as he looked at fishing poles and carhart coats.}

Santa informed me that if I show Eli throughout next year the picture of him with Santa, Eli will recognize himself and won't be scared of Santa next year. I assured Santa I'll do all that I can to help Eli believe! ;)

Happy December! Happy Birthday month, Angela! My favorite month is here! Obvi!