Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving to all of our friends and family, near and far. We have so much to be thankful for, it is actually quite humbling. I am especially thankful to all the soldiers serving all over our country and those in far off places. Especially my soldier. I am extra thankful for him and especially proud of him today. I am thankful for our miracle, Nolan. I am thankful for 2 of the most mischievous, sweet, good natured dogs a family could ask for. I am thankful for Pumpkin Spice creamer. I am thankful for the women I have met this year through church and the lessons I have learned and know I am going to learn. I am especially thankful for a God who loves me and forgives me and who is more patient with me than I could ever be with myself. I am grateful for my friendships, those that are living far away and those down the street. I am thankful for our extended family and the love they pour on us always. I am thankful for our home. I am thankful for my health, even though like many things in life I take it for granted all too often. I am thankful for caramel pecan pie. And I am grateful to all of you. Happy Thanksgiving! May today be full of blessings, food, friends, family and love!

Nolan's Birthday Party

Saturday we had a party for Nolan's 2nd Birthday. Long story short, he picked the theme. Firetrucks. He LOVES firetrucks. He's very excited about going to St. Louis next month and getting to see a real firetruck, since Uncle Jack (my brother) is a fireman. Anyway, Nolan was beside himself with excitement and had an absolute blast. I don't think I could find a way to truly thank our friends (and family) for making his birthday so amazing and memorable. It was bittersweet without Brian, but our friends kept us so entertained and spoiled Nolan so much that we didn't have time to dwell on missing Daddy (too much). Thanks to Tara and Rob for picking up Nolan's cake and to Cheyna for picking up the sandwiches and balloons.

Rob, Tara, & Alex:

Zach, Nathan & Nolan sitting down momentarily to eat:Jamie & Donovan:

The Elmo pinata. It was a pull string pinata, so no baseball bats or hitting of any kind was involved! Thanks for holding Elmo, Mr. Kypp!Nolan opening a gift with a little help from Abby: The cake. This is actually a "cupcake" cake, so there is no cutting of the cake required (a good thing because among his other duties, Brian is my official pastry cutter...and pizza cutter, but I've just eaten zig zag sliced pizza since he's been away): Singing Happy BirthdayAnd the devouring of the cupcake (and ice cream):

McMenamy's Love the Hall's

I don't have very good words, but I know you guys are definitely going through a rough patch. You are in our hearts and our prayers. Tammi and Tim, you both are awesome parents and both of you made Brian and I long to be parents long before we had Nolan. You guys are amazing. Hang in there. This too shall pass. We love you!!!!