I hope that all of you had a happy Thanksgiving last week. For the international readers, I hope you're doing well also as we head into the final weeks of 2016.
Any change in routine during this time of year is difficult. A couple of years ago, I went with my friend and her family to visit her parents in Florida. It was a rough go after spending 12 years in the same routine, but I was thankful to have a place to go. Last year, I went to my friend's house where I played hilarious “Minute to Win It” games with her family after we ate. I remarked how it felt like the lonely season, but it really wasn't so bad. I don't have that stereotypical Norman Rockwell family unit, but really if you think about it, those families are the exception these days. I am always exceptionally thankful for the friends and framily in my life, and need to make a point of telling them more often.
I'll share about this year's Thanksgiving a bit later in the post, but I need to stop a moment to say THANK YOU to anyone reading this.
I've shared the ups and downs of life here on my blog and on social media for several years now. It still astounds me that anyone cares to follow along. I am incredibly grateful for every read of a blog post, share or comment on social media, email signup, blog comment, and general act of kindness that comes my way. Sometimes I have big things to say, and other times I struggle with words. No matter what, you're always there. You (yep, YOU) are a huge part of my daily life, and I can't overstate my thanks.
As far as why I didn't say thanks last week… I was traveling with this one:
Sidenote: I'm kind of obsessed with this turtleneck dress from J.Jill. I haven't worn a turtleneck in several years, and now I want all.the.turtlenecks. Wearing with a denim jacket from Kohl's originally from this post, and a necklace I picked up at The Best of Everything in Naples, FL.
Steve and I spent 6 days or so with his parents. They showed me around the Jersey shore area where they have a home, and then we went to his childhood house outside of Philadelphia for Thanksgiving. The photos immediately above and below this text were taken in Ocean City, NJ. It was insanely cold and windy! I can only imagine how crowded the boardwalk would be in the height of summer.
We had a delicious Thanksgiving dinner at the home of family friends. Thankfully, I had met everyone before, so it wasn't as stressful as it could have been! They were all wonderful to me and I'm so thankful to the hospitality both on Thanksgiving and the rest of the time we were there.
Also, I was thrilled to be able to see one of my favorite people, Dre! He met Steve and I for dinner in King of Prussia, and we had a great time. I haven't seen him since Fitbloggin' in 2015, and I really missed him. He's one of those people who always has a kind word and encouragement. And he's always good for a laugh. Doesn't matter if we go years without seeing each other – we know we're there for each other. Thankful for him! And also thankful that Steve got to interact with a Fitbloggin' blend. That world can seem odd to those who haven't been indoctrinated!
It goes without saying, but I'm also ridiculously thankful for this one:
Don't worry – I'll hold back from a full-on mush-fest! Since meeting this guy 6 months ago, my life has been enriched. He loves me in a way that I didn't know was possible. I can see it every time he looks at me. And I didn't know I was capable of loving someone so much. It's unlike anything I've ever experienced. So thankful for you, Steve!
Now time for Christmas decorations, parties, and sequins!
