carter hates winter clothes

and picked out and put on this winner of an outfit instead of what I laid out for him.

fancy date

Cutters bought a table at a charity event being hosted by one of the player's for the Arizona Cardinals so we got an invite and a chance to play dress up!! Doesn't my hubby look so handsome? It was fun to feel like we had a real grown-up date and socialize with the great people Patrick works with.

This picture is for my mother-in-law, Peg so she can see how that outfit she and I chose turned out. Thank you so much - totally beyond generous!

It was a great night - hopefully we can go again next year!

glendale glitters

After our Camelback hike, we had a sweet invite to have dinner at the Stanley's and then go see the lights (Glendale Glitters) in the historical district of Glendale. We enjoyed some tortilla soup and salad (that Paige is a good cooker - ya know?!) and then piled into our cars to head out to the lights. We thought the drizzle would put a damper on things but it stopped just in time. Too bad Elle had a wardrobe malfunction (ie: puke) and had to spend the evening wrapped in a sweatshirt. It was crowded but fun. Once we solved our bathroom issues, we enjoyed looking at lights, listening to music and telling the kids no we're not gonna buy that.

See that $2 snow? Sorry boys. Just ask someone to throw some out to you.

The boys got delish churros and rootbeer. But that funnel cake Justin and Paige shared with me? I'm glad you bought that.

camelback mountain 2.0

We made it to the top this year!! We decided to walk off some Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday afternoon and hike busy Camelback Mountain. It was a fun time and our kids are serious troopers.

Carter's doing the "monkey walk." So much of this hike is doing just this. Next time, I may bring gloves because you use your hands a ton and they get all ouchy from the rock.

The mountain has all sorts of cool caves and outcroppings. Dad lifted Dylan into this one.

Of course all the boys had to do the scary walk of death that freaks the crap out of me. And all the people walking by me were wondering out loud what kind of parents would let their kids go off the trail like this. Patrick says it's no big deal but as you can see, I passed it up. Look at the valley on the other side of the mountain!

We made it! Gorgeous views and a gorgeous day.

Enjoying some pb&j and BBQ chips at the top for lunch.

Dad took the big boys up to a cool cave on the way down that was a little too dangerous for Carter. I sat with him while he cried about it.

Loved hiking the day away! See ya next year, Camelback.

giving thanks

The Watson's had a wonderful, quiet Thanksgiving at home this year. We were lonely for our extended family but really enjoyed sharing this tradition with just our party of five. Patrick and I had planned on going out for the feast but the boys begged and pleaded for dinner at home. I actually really enjoyed cooking it and was pleased with my turkey and stuffing, the most important parts for me! The best move of the day was leaving the dishes in the sink and on the table for an hour while Patrick and I took a nap on the couch and the kids watched "Home Alone" on T.V. A new tradition for sure.

We have much to be thankful for. And are unbelievably grateful.