Thanksgiving celebrations 2018

Well, Thanksgiving 2018 has officially ended.  I hope everyone had a great day! I know we did.  We had a nice large group of people: 12 to be exact not including Bree.  It was nice because after my grandma passed away a few weeks ago, there was some family members we reconnected with that we haven't seen or spoken to in over a decade.  They were at our house for Thanksgiving this year! It was so great to be able to reconnect and grow our holiday celebrations.  

Jena's Outfit: Shirt: Old Navy I Skirt: Loft Outlet I Tights: Target I Shoes (very old, similar is linked): FairyMiss
Bree's outfit: Sweater (is old from Target so I linked a similar one): Target I Skirt: Target I Tights: Target I Shoes: Target

First of all,  WE MATCHED! I already had my skirt and then I found this one for Bree and I just had to get it.  How adorable!! I knew it would be the perfect skirt for Thanksgiving.  Bree's sweater is old from last year as I tend to buy clothes on clearance in larger sizes so Bree has a nice wardrobe as she grows into them but I spent alot less money.  I just love her little sweater though.  There is the cutest little tie in the back and if they made it in adult sizes I would so buy it.  That is how I feel about all of Cat & Jack clothes though.  Anyone with me.  My shoes are very old from Nordstrom probably about 10 yrs ago but I still love them and oxfords are so popular now! I lasted for most of the day but eventually I was a little sore and tired in them so they came off.  I love any opportunity I can get to match my little munchkin.  

We have been hosting Thanksgiving the past few years.  Our families live on the opposite sides of the area.  My mom is about a half hour south of us and my in-laws are a half hour north so it just makes it easier and convenient to meet in the middle.  Plus, I don't want to drive to 2 separate house for Thanksgiving especially with a toddler who needs to be near her bed.  I will admit that hosting is alot of work.  It takes alot of energy to get the house cleaned and prepared especially with a house full of pets (2 dogs and 2 cats) and a toddler who leaves crumbs and a mess everywhere.  The good thing though is that we at least have a very clean house for a few days until it gets messy again.  I also have alot of help.  My in-laws made some stuff and my mother made alot of stuff.  We made a deep fried turkey, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes and rolls.  I also baked a pumpkin pie.  I usually make apple but my mom was getting that this year so I made the pumpkin.  

and I also love any reason I can bring out my nice china.  I don't get to use it alot but I use it at holidays and special occasions.  This china belonged to my grandparents and my mom gave me a whole set for my wedding shower.  It is so beautiful with the most beautiful rose pattern and a gold trim.  

I have a set of cloth napkins with beautiful silver trim and some pink floral napkin rings that I normally use, but it feels more springy and does not really give the holiday feel.  I found these adorable gold bow napkin rings and these paper napkins with the gold dots to add a bit of simple elegance.  The napkins I obviously cannot reuse but the napkin rings I can and I love that they make the napkins look like a little package.  Such a simple fancy feel.  You can find the napkin rings from Target and the napkins also from Target. They would both be perfect for your Christmas meals as well! 

Thanksgiving is definitely one of my favorite holidays.  Not only is the food amazing but it is such a fun time.  It is the perfect excuse to wear those stretch clothes and indulge.  Yes, I mean food indulgences but also indulging in laughter, stories, memories, and fun.  It was so nice to hear everyone reminiscing and talking about old times, talking about my grandmother, stories of youth, stories that were funny and making each other laugh.  It evokes a sense of closeness and togetherness.  I hope everyone continues to enjoy the next month leading up to Christmas and please remember, this season may be a season of giving but it is not just giving gifts.  It is giving time and giving love to each other.  

​Happy Holidays!