Thirty, Flirty, and Thankful
Christmastime is in full swing in Massachusetts. The Christmas tree is up, the lights are twinkling, and the cold weather keeps coming. We've already seen a lot of snow just during the last few weeks. Coming from Texas, we haven't really see snow for four years. I've lived in Utah and Idaho so you'd think I would be used to it. Snow is a lot of work, but at least it looks pretty when it falls.
I know it has been a while, but I am finally getting around to talking about our Thanksgiving. On top of that, Collin turned 30 last month!
We are into cake decorating in our family. I asked Collin what cake he wanted for his birthday this year. He requested the same cake I made him last year which was the cookies n' cream cake. I completely goofed up on last year's cake by mixing the oreos in the batter too soon. This year, it was my chance to redeem myself. I made sure to follow the instructions carefully before mixing the ingredients. In the end, it was an oreo extravaganza! Instead of a gray cake like last year, it looked like a legit cookies n' cream cake. Not only did it look better but tasted amazing!
Not long after, we drove down to Maryland for Thanksgiving week. Collin's family recently moved out there so it all worked out for us to see them. Since Collin and I were battling coughs that week, we basically relaxed during the whole trip. However, we managed to squeeze in some time in Washington D.C. We had been to D.C. before, but it had been about four years since we've seen it. It's just as beautiful as I remember, with so much U.S. History! Collin's parents were so kind to watch Autumn while we had a couple's getaway trip.
On Thanksgiving day, we drove back to Maryland. There was lots of food preparations that needed to be done. Collin and I made the mashed potatoes, creamed corn, and homemade apple pie. Everything tasted so delicious. During our 6 years of marriage, this was my first Thanksgiving with Collin's family! It was very special and one to remember.
As we sat at the dinner table, we went around the table talking about what we are thankful for. When it was my turn, it took time to gather my thoughts. There is so much that I am thankful for. I said that I am thankful for happiness and peace. Life throws unexpected curve balls at us and can get crazy. I know I have had my fair share of hard times. Through the chaos comes peace. Peace leads to happiness. I am so grateful that peace and happiness truly exists in this life. I have felt this divine love through Jesus Christ. He is the Prince of Peace; through Him, we will receive eternal happiness.
I know it has been a while, but I am finally getting around to talking about our Thanksgiving. On top of that, Collin turned 30 last month!
We are into cake decorating in our family. I asked Collin what cake he wanted for his birthday this year. He requested the same cake I made him last year which was the cookies n' cream cake. I completely goofed up on last year's cake by mixing the oreos in the batter too soon. This year, it was my chance to redeem myself. I made sure to follow the instructions carefully before mixing the ingredients. In the end, it was an oreo extravaganza! Instead of a gray cake like last year, it looked like a legit cookies n' cream cake. Not only did it look better but tasted amazing!
Not long after, we drove down to Maryland for Thanksgiving week. Collin's family recently moved out there so it all worked out for us to see them. Since Collin and I were battling coughs that week, we basically relaxed during the whole trip. However, we managed to squeeze in some time in Washington D.C. We had been to D.C. before, but it had been about four years since we've seen it. It's just as beautiful as I remember, with so much U.S. History! Collin's parents were so kind to watch Autumn while we had a couple's getaway trip.
On Thanksgiving day, we drove back to Maryland. There was lots of food preparations that needed to be done. Collin and I made the mashed potatoes, creamed corn, and homemade apple pie. Everything tasted so delicious. During our 6 years of marriage, this was my first Thanksgiving with Collin's family! It was very special and one to remember.
As we sat at the dinner table, we went around the table talking about what we are thankful for. When it was my turn, it took time to gather my thoughts. There is so much that I am thankful for. I said that I am thankful for happiness and peace. Life throws unexpected curve balls at us and can get crazy. I know I have had my fair share of hard times. Through the chaos comes peace. Peace leads to happiness. I am so grateful that peace and happiness truly exists in this life. I have felt this divine love through Jesus Christ. He is the Prince of Peace; through Him, we will receive eternal happiness.
My handsome 30-year-old. I can't believe we are both 30!
He maybe 30, but he's still a kid at heart.
My present for Collin next to the cake I made for him
I did most of this cake by myself. Not to toot my own horn, but I feel proud of myself for pulling it off!
Topped with oreo goodness...
Blowing out the candles
Here's the inside of the cake. Definitely less gray...
We celebrated another birthday! On November 12th, our new niece Emma Elaine was born! She is precious.
After driving through 5 states, We made it to Maryland
Autumn reunited with her best cousin friend, Hudson
Celebrating all the November birthdays. Collin's mom made an amazing banana cake!
We took a trip to the zoo in D.C. We got to see all kinds of animals, including this panda bear.
Her new favorite animal, the elephant
Having fun!
The Washington D.C. Cathedral. It almost looks like Notre Dame! You can see Collin, but he is itty bitty in this picture.
Passage way in the cathedral
We loved the details inside the cathedral
The stained-glass windows blew me away! They are so vibrant and tell about Bible stories.
Just being silly...
Got a glimpse at the White House
One of my favorite sites in D.C. The Washington Monument
Beautiful Sunset behind the Lincoln Memorial
Taking a selfie before ending our date night
I couldn't believe we stayed at this hotel. It's gorgeous!
I helped decorate the house for Thanksgiving dinner.
Dinner is served!
Saved room for dessert
Autumn playing with Grandma Wheeler
Cutest piano duet in the making. They should take lessons from grandma.
Did I mention they're the CUTEST?!
Having fun with Aunt Mikaela
Celebrating Hudson's 2nd birthday! I was glad we got to squeeze in time with the family before driving back to Massachusetts.
Opening our gift. He received zoo animals
Chloe came with us to Maryland! She did great the whole time.
On the drive back, we decided to make a quick stop at Liberty Park in New Jersey. It was my first time ever seeing New York City! The cameras never do it justice, but the city is just as beautiful as I imagined.
Top it off with the Statue of Liberty
We got home just in the nick of time. The snow quickly came our way the following day. Traffic was also insane coming back! We got back really late, but at least it was a smooth ride back.
We even got to see a magical winter sunset
Christmas tree is up! Best feeling in the world. Can't wait for this holiday season.
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