give thanks!

We had a nice, low-key Thanksgiving celebration at my parent's house. Jeff had to work until 5:30, Kathy and Eric spent the day with Eric's family, so my mom and dad decided to host a small dinner for us and Aunt Eileen. Everything was delicious and we had a really nice time. Jack didn't eat much, besides a banana and some apple sauce. But, he was happy and he had eaten well all day... he doesn't miss a meal on Thanksgiving, waiting for the big dinner! Aunt Eileen was such a trip and kept saying that Jack was the cutest baby she's ever seen and that she's seen a lot of babies - so funny!

Jack and I braved the mall on Black Friday and it was pretty chaotic. We didn't even buy anything. For lunch, we met up with Mom, Kathy, and Eric at Larosa's, of course! It was yummy.

Cousin Matt visited us in the evening. Jack put on such a show for him; smiling, walking, and giving hugs and high fives. Matt seemed entertained! My parents also came over for a bit. It was fun to catch up with Matt and to hear about all of his Chicago adventures. He's loving life at Loyola.

Today, I worked for a bit, while my parents watched little Jack. Then, Jack and I met up with our friends, Michelle and Aleesha, for some shopping, playing, eating, and mall walking. In the play area, I was the total "helicopter" mom, hovering over Jack, because he kept going up to other kids (bigger kids, as he was the smallest one there) and tapping them (well, kind of pushing, but since he's not aggresive about it, i consider it more tapping. Either way, I'm not a fan, and I hope that it doesn't become a habit.) and he also kept wanting to wander out of the play area to the toy store and to the kiddie train track.... great placement of stores, trains, and play land! However, after a full belly, Jack mellowed out a bit, and we were able to get in some good mall laps. I have become quite an avid winter mall walker! Sometimes, it's just us and the retired folk during early mornings. Good times! They love talking to baby J and Jack is always good for a wave and a smile.

My goal has been to go to bed by 11 each night and i'm already running late, so i'm going to end now!

good night.