Carson's First Thanksgiving

Because Carson turns one this week (?!?!?!), Thanksgiving was the last major holiday "first" she had left to experience.  Because our families are so awesome, we had 2 Thanksgivings (that's right, I made it plural).

First, we went to my parents' house and hung out for the evening. 

Here, Carson came up with her first grandparent nickname by pronouncing "Grandpa" as "Poo-tah".  My dad was so excited, I think she could have just called him Poo and he would have loved it.  There was lots of playing, lots of relaxing, and of course, lots of eating.  Here's what my mom whipped up for us:

-breaded fish that was oh-so crunchy and delicious
-green beans that had more flavor than any I've ever tasted
-the cheesiest mac & cheese this side of the Mississippi
-marinated roasted tomatoes that I now want to put on everything I eat

Then Wednesday, we left for South Carolina to spend Thanksgiving day with Brandon's family.  We have come to expect a few things when staying at Giddy and Grandad's:

-football (or tennis or golf, depending on the time of year)--regardless, there will always be sports on the television
-food--dips, snacks, roasts, bacon, eggs...--and plenty of it!

-dogs--everywhere, all the time--in and out of the back door, following Giddy from room to room hoping for (and always getting) a bite of whatever she's eating, herding Carson, napping in the corner.  It seriously feels like Wild Kingdom sometimes.  Carson loved that they have two smaller dogs that seemed just her size.

-naps--there always seems to be time for naps when we're there, even though we can't usually find time for them at home

Giddy and Aunt Peggy put together lots of great meals while we were there and always put some aside for Carson that accommodated her growing list of food allergies (dairy, eggs, and tuna so far, if you're keeping track).

Carson also made a new friend named Sara Jace, who is the daughter of one of Gram's best friends, Tyler.  Isn't she too stinking cute??? 

Carson was generally sweet to her, especially at first (before she realized Sara Jace would want to play with her toys).  She walked up and patted her gently on the back like she was a little baby.

So now we're home, a few pounds heavier and much more relaxed than when we left.  Thank you to everyone for making Carson's first Thanksgiving a great one!