my comings and goings

i just want to start off by apologizing for such a long absence. it hasn't been for any reason except i'm having "issues" with my pc in that i cannot load any of my digital pics onto my laptop cause we cannot find my cord to plug it in and it doesn't have a place to read my card....so i'm waiting. it's too bad really cause i have the cutest pictures from trunk or treat, ry's first birthday party and hair cut, and a few other things. i'll just have to do one long catch up post as soon as i can get a cord. (i promise not to make it too long. as for now, i can at least tell you about the holiday. we just got back from spending my birthday and thanksgiving (21st-23rd) at our time share in mccall with my family...

it really is beautiful up there and the condos are very nice. i enjoy being up there because of the pace and it's so peaceful. after some wise pondering, we decided on getting each family (both brothers, us, and my parents) their own condo so to maintain some sanity. we congrated for meals and games in my parents, then got to go back to our own for naps and night time. we ordered our thanksgiving meal from fred meyers this year so we wouldn't be stuck preparing it all. for 50.00 we had plenty of food for all 8 adults and 5 kids and left overs to boot. i was impressed. it was very good and i would definately recommend it. actually, i'd say it's one of the best birds i've had in a long time.
so anyway. we didn't go anywhere except yesterday before the feast. everyone (but me, mom, and ry) took the kids sledding and from what i hear they had a blast. (check out for pictures) the rest of the time we watched football, played games, and ate good food. weds night for my birthday my mom fixed our traditional birthday dinner...schnitzel. mmmmm. there's nothing better. let me tell you. i feel sorry for all of you that don't get to take part in this tradition :o) my mom is awesome. she brought up everything for the whole meal. what a trooper. i can always count on her to go above and beyond. there is none like her and non that compare. i love you so much mom. thanks again.
everyone had a great time, got somewhat decent sleep, and no children were hurt. i'd say that classifies it as a successful trip.
hope you all had a wonderful thanksgiving yesterday and my condolances to those who might have lost loved ones to black friday :o)