Decorating for Christmas

 We decided to go with an artificial tree this year because of our kitties. We knew that they would be all over the tree and we didn't want to be cleaning up pine needles every day. Well, we were right. The kitties loved the tree and wanted to climb it all the time. We, of course, did NOT love this and would give them a gentle spray (with a water bottle) every time they would try. They also like to chew on the lights that came on the tree. We purposely left off all of our glass (and fragile) ornaments because we didn't want any broken. The tree skirt ended up bringing hours of entertainment to our kitties. Overall, the kitties didn't do too badly.

I also asked Phil if he could make me a wooden nativity set for our front yard. He far exceeded my expectations and it is beautiful (Kate helped him)! We had so many people comment on how amazing it is and how they want Phil to make them one. :) 

Running joke in our house...how many "First year in our new house" ornaments do we have?

Thanksgiving 2021

 We stayed in Hartsville for Thanksgiving and went to Phil's sister's house with most of his immediate family. We spent the morning at home watching the parade and finishing up the sides we were taking. The girls spent the night at the grandparents to help them with baking and getting ready. We ate, sang karaoke, and then played games. 

Kate making a chocolate roll

This was the dessert counter. 

Phil's Trip to ATL

 Phil got to go with some friends from church to the Atlanta Falcons game against the Patriots (friends from church are from Maine and big Patriots fans). They drove down on Thursday, went to the game, stayed the night, and drove back Friday. I watched the game at home on our projector! 

Downtown Hartsville Holiday Open House

 Hartsville had an open house to start the Christmas season. They did a lighting of the tree, photos with Santa (line was WAY too long), and lots of businesses were open with sales and samples. Phil was out of town, so I went with the kids. We ended the night with a quick trip to the library since we were parked in their parking lot. Might as well. :) 

Recent Random Kitty Photos

 

Weekend in the Mountains

 We went to the old house to see our friends (staying there for a few months for a sabbatical) and also to see family.  It was a tad chilly, but so nice to be there. 

Aunt Sherri & Uncle Allen