What a Wonderful Thanksgiving

Ella "cheesin" next to our Christmas tree
Sleeping with my sister's dog on Thanksgiving

Sweeping for Grandma

She got in trouble with Dad...

Wearing the new apron Grandma Wanda made her.

We had a rough start last week. Ella had a minor cold which of course turned into an ear infection. I was wondering why she kept waking up in the middle of the night screaming. She even managed to tell her auntie "ear hurt". I couldn't believe it! The doctor said she needed to go on antibiotics since she was having symptoms along with the infection. I was bummed because she is on that stuff far too often. She also got her flu shot while we were there and that made her mad! But all it took was one of those sugar free suckers to cheer her up.

Thanksgiving was amazing. We just spent the entire day with our families. First we ate at Charley's parents and visited with his family. Then we went to my parent's and had a fun night with them. I love getting to eat two Thanksgiving meals. So yummy! Charley is on call this week for work and was called out about 30 minutes right before both meals. Thank goodness both times he walked in the door just as we were sitting down to eat.

Lately I have been really trying to be grateful for what I have and to not dwell on the things that I don't have. The biggest and most important thing I am thankful for is my family. My life would be nothing without them. They are always there for me and I couldn't imagine ever being away from them again. My husband takes such good care of me and Ella. He works so hard to provide us a warm home . He has also supported me throughout my schooling journey which has taken MUCH longer than expected. He has been supporting me ever since we got married. My daughter is a blessing. I don't even know where to begin with her... I look at her and can't believe that she is mine. I am so thankful for having her in my life.

On Friday we took Ella to a gem and mineral shop. She about died when she saw all the rocks! She has a fascination with them and loves to pack them around in different containers. We got a little bag full of rocks and she has been playing with them ever since that day.

Tonight is officially my first night on my own at work and making tips... I am very nervous. I really want this job to work out because it is a great way for me to work part-time and still make decent money. My shifts are 4-9 four days a week. So it works out great with Ella because we are together all day and then Charley gets her at night. I hope I can keep up!

Last week I picked up my application to the nursing program. It was such an amazing moment. I can't believe I get to apply in two months!!! By May I should know where I stand on the waiting list. I am beyond excited...