Merry Christmas 2021

Murphy was so good, I couldn't believe it.  He's so sweet 90% of the time, but he has moments when his 9-month-old puppy energy takes over.  When he went for a bath a few weeks ago, his groomer commented that his behavior was "better than most".  We laughed and laughed at that.  I figure it was a little like a C in conduct on an elementary school report card?   But for this Christmas night, we couldn't have asked for better behavior from him.  

Not my skinniest Christmas but not anywhere near my heaviest of pre-keto years.  We are still keto strong and thankful for the health benefits.  Mark starts treatment for Waldenstroms right after the New Year.

We had lasagna, beautiful strawberries, green beans, salad for our dinner.  And a slew of keto cookies and fudge.

My friend Cathy sent me this cute little charcuterie tray.

Mark fried chicken for our Christmas eve dinner.  Not really traditional, but it was amazing :)

I always like going back and seeing pictures from Christmas in years past.  Next year I won't remember that cute little tray that Cathy sent me until I come back here and check in.  This blog is going on 17 years old.  Seventeen years, wow!

December 2021

We were so happy to be able to attend Betsy's 8th grade Christmas program at school this year.  She makes our hearts sing! 

Oceanna spent her 2nd birthday in the desert!  We had a little zoom call and it was precious to see her reading from her picture books and playing with the marbles.  So sweet to hear her say "Wow!"

 

December 2021

The big Santa swag didn't get to stay.  

It's too tempting for the birds and then they fly in the house as we open the door!

Centerpiece from last year, it still looks good.

The little nativity scene is the last ornament that I bought at The Farm.  I knew when I saw it that it needed to be in a wreath.

A little fancy for the season

 

A Good Day in the Kitchen

Keto cookies and Betsy.  It was a good day in the kitchen.

Thanksgiving 2021

I hope you all had a beautiful keto Thanksgiving. Mark and I cooked a big turkey, made keto dressing, cranberry sauce, green beans, etc. Dessert was pecan pie cheesecake.

Some of our loved ones were sick this year, so while we didn't get to be around the table together, we did get to pack up food and share it via doorstop drop-offs. We're thankful everybody is on the mend!

Mama's turkey became part of a wreath.

 Oceanna on a Florida beach watching the sunset.

Feathered Pumpkins

I'm a little addicted to making these!

 

and now it's three years. . .

I'm thankful I got to be Judson's mom.  I do believe that everything happens for a reason; that all things work together for good in the long run; and that no matter what, we'll all be okay.  Of course, some days are easier than others, right?