The latest

We said farewell to our Thankful tree. It wasn't quite as full as last year's, but it was still fun. I loved hearing which particular animal Afton would be thankful for each night. She got away with variations of the same animal. "Cheetahs" "Baby cheetahs" "Mommy tough cheetahs." And I loved seeing Sam write his own. He's such a sweetheart.

We said hello to our Christmas tree.

Dan celebrated his 32nd birthday on Friday. He requested baked potato soup and carrot cake. I had never made carrot cake before. I used this recipe: Sam's Famous Carrot Cake and it was a hit. Just in case you're looking for a good carrot cake recipe. Topped with cream cheese frosting.

Mom and Dad came over for the festivities, too, but I didn't get a pic of them.

 I know it's kind of feminine looking, but I didn't want to color the frosting and I wanted to try this style.

He got dress shirts, socks, slippers, a snowflake tie (from Afton), athletic socks (from Sam), and a new 2-man tent for his camping adventures that will hopefully take place this spring and summer. I love Dan. In case you didn't know. He's the best and I'm so lucky he's my best friend.

Dan and I were supposed to speak in church on Sunday but it was cancelled due to inclement weather. It was a stir-crazy day. I read a whole book. We baked some bread.