Holidays 101

M received a crash course in Dawson/Kirchner holidays this past week. As many of you know, we live on what some would call a make-shift family compound. Our house is situated exactly one mile from each of our parents....I know, I know, it should qualify us for our own reality TV show. Nonetheless, it makes the holidays really easy and FUN. We are almost always able to visit with both families on the same day, sometimes even having an opportunity for both sides celebrate together.

It is exciting to watch Marshall experience his first holiday season at 11 months of age. He has become so much more aware of the world around him these days so his first Thanksgiving was a momentous one. Sounds of my boisterous family gathered in the kitchen, the sight of so many familiar faces at one table, smells of delicious casseroles baking in the oven, and tastes of sweet potatoes (kicked up a notch from the Gerber kind) and carrot souffle...so much to take in! It just about wore the little man out! He passed with flying colors though. We celebrated with my family in the early afternoon, headed home for a quick recharge, and then out to the Dawson Thanksgiving dinner in the evening. We had so much to be thankful for this year. How special it was to be able to share it with our baby boy and all of those we love.

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Marshall with Aunt Patty and Shamous. Looks like he is still ok with dogs (that don't bark).

A rare group photo of my family (minus cousin Trav)... can you feel the love?

Michael and Marshall with Mike's cousins from NC.