Thanksgiving princesses

David and I have returned home from a brief and fun visit with my family in Cincinnati. We especially enjoyed our little niece, Jenna, who is totally into the whole princess thing. She has both Cinderella and Snow White dress-up outfits and loves dancing around in them. I was recruited several times to provide live dance piano music for Jenna and David; it was so cute when she needed a dance partner and asked matter-of-factly "would you be my handsome prince?" Priceless! Also priceless was me trying to play the Sleeping Beauty Waltz by ear - it sounded like Sleeping Beauty with sleep apnia knocking things over in her sleep. But it was fun.

Below is an adorable picture of Jenna (in the middle) at her 3rd birthday party this past October, with two of her best friends in full princess regalia:

And again at Halloween in her Cinderella costume:

The dinner was just marvelous. My dad, who I'm convinced is moonlighting somewhere clandestinely as a chef for a 4+ star restaurant, made this stuffing that had the most amazing savory flavor and light texture. I think he makes it differently every year and it's always scrumptious.

My mom again blew my mind with her seasonal decor. She had this absolutely breathtaking table setting, resplendent with a gorgeous autumn-y tablecloth and napkins tied with gossamer wire-ribbon bows. Everything on the table had perfectly coordinated harvest colors. When it comes to decorating, I can only stand in awe of my mother, who gives Martha Stewart a run for her money (without the jail time, no less!) every time the seasons change. Regrettably, I forgot to bring our digital camera on our trip, or I would have taken pictures.

I think Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year. Its message is simple and easy to understand, and can be fully appreciated and practiced by people of all faiths. I love gathering together with my friends and family and the simplicity of giving thanks - focusing on the things we have and being grateful.

This year, I am particularly thankful for my life. I love where I am now, that I have a profound sense of what I have and how precious and short my time here on earth is. I am looking forward to the new year with excitement and anticipation of many exciting new beginnings!