Thanksgiving Week

We decided not to make the 12 hour drive up to Wisconsin this year for a variety of reasons. First of all, Tim had round two of National Boards today so he really needed some study time. We have also discovered that long trips are getting tougher to do the older Sofia gets. She can handle about 6-7 hours in the car but beyond that she really gets sick of it, and I don't blame her one bit. What we've done in the past is try to drive through the night so she can sleep but last time we did that Tim and I were both so sleepy with over two hours left in the drive we didn't think it was safe. Anyways, we decided to stay in Memphis. Tim's parents came to visit the weekend before because they couldn't handle waiting until Christmas to see their sweet granddaughter. The timing worked out perfectly because they were able to stay home with Sofia the day after her surgery while Tim and I had to work. We had a great time visiting with Tim's family and we look forward to spending more time together at Christmas.

For Thanksgiving day we joined our friends Rachael and Hayden and their family in Arkansas. We had a delicious meal, Sofia even tried some mashed potatoes, turkey, and cranberries. She wasn't a big fan of the turkey but she tolerated the potatoes and cranberries. After our meal we played a few games of Settlers of Cataan (one of our favorite games to play with the Sowers) and shot skeet (clay discs) outside. I haven't shot a gun in a long time and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed myself. Unfortunately, I left our camera in the car and only took a few pictures with my iPhone.

 Sofia hanging out with Rachael's mom

 Taking a little nap after her first Thanksgiving meal :)

Best for last! Hayden (who never holds babies) snuggling with Sofia

After Thanksgiving we drove home so Tim could wake up early and study the next day. I have to be honest and say that it was really nice not spending two days in the car and driving between families and feeling the stress of trying to make everyone happy. I love our families dearly but it was great to spend some quality time with just Tim and Sofia. Thinking back to last year, it's amazing to actually have Sofia with us. Last year we were just dreaming about meeting our baby and wondering what she would be like. She has changed my life in ways I couldn't imagine. I feel so thankful to God for putting her in my life and family.  I'm also thankful for how God has really protected my family and I over the last year. It's been a very busy year full of some very major life events and God has provided and taken care of us.