And So It Begins

I LOVE the holidays and the holiday season!! Once Thanksgiving arrives, the holiday season is in full swing! We went up to Mat's parents for Thanksgiving in Idaho Falls. We were so excited to get a break from the daily routine of Utah.

On our way up to Idaho Falls we were able to stop in Pocatello to see some of our friends. Mat caught up with his friend and old co-worker, Brad and I got to see my best friend, Bethany. Mat & Brad ran off to go duck hunting, while Bethany & I did the more traditional shopping route. It was great to window shop and have some girl time. Bethany is also expecting her first child in the Spring, so we were on the hunt for baby shower ideas. She is just so stinkin' cute at 6 months pregnant!

We were able to catch up with Mom & Dad Haderlie Tuesday night and just spend a little time together, since we haven't seen them in months!

Wednesday morning, we caught up with Mat's brother, Tucker & his wife, Mary in Rexburg....it was 8 degrees outside!! I couldn't hardly believe it could get that cold, but then again, it is Idaho! We spent the whole day visiting and catching up with family members that we don't see very often. It was simply relaxing to be around those that you love and that love you for you. By the end of the day we realized it was the calm before the storm.

Thursday was full of food and food and more food! Mom Haderlie "smoked" the turkey (it was more of a marinade that I can't even begin to describe) - it was AMAZING! Then her rolls are legendary! She told me that I could make them, but I chickened out. These rolls are sooooooo yummy, we are talking the best rolls ever! I tried making them once and they hit the trash before Mat could even see them - I don't know what happened, but I was not about to take the chance on her rolls on Thanksgiving. So she did her magic and handled everything, but the sweet potatoes - that was my job. I made Aunt Jeanette's sweet potato souffle, it wouldn't be Thanksgiving for me without it! It was a small quiet group for dinner, but it was full of great conversation. We were able to see Grandma & Grandpa Haderlie, which was a real treat! And then mom Haderlie's best friend from high school, Pat and her dad joined us. Since it was a last minute change of plans to go up for Thanksgiving, Mat's siblings had already made other arrangements.

We skipped out on the Black Friday craziness since we had to be back in Provo by Friday afternoon for Mat to be at work. We really wish we could have stayed longer, but cherish the time that we had.

Also, last weekend, our friend & wonderful neighbor, Rachel, took our Christmas pictures. They turned out FANTASTIC! She also caught some great pictures that just made us laugh! So here's an assortment of what she captured.

And now for a few that you just can't help but giggle at....

We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!