Take That Christmas

Before I say anything, I just want you to know that I love Christmas.

So keep that in mind when I say that Christmas just needs to chill a little. I mean a few months ago there were Christmas decorations in Costco. And the day after Halloween... look out. 

Now, very few wait to celebrate. (Rhyme unintentional but appreciated.)

I am one of the few who still respects Thanksgiving, if you will. I like waiting to decorate, put lights up, listen to Christmas music, etc., until after Thanksgiving. Sorry if I offend anyone.

I waited to write this post about Thanksgiving because I wanted to be an advocate for the fine holiday and give Christmas a little taste of its own medicine. 

Since the majority of people start celebrating Christmas before Thanksgiving, I am going to do the same, yet opposite, right now and gawk over how great Thanksgiving is during the Christmas season.

SO TAKE THAT CHRISTMAS

LET'S SEE HOW YOU LIKE IT

This Thanksgiving was a good one. The day was a nice sunny one, making me remember how blessed I am to live in such a lovely place. 

In the morning, I did the Turkey Trot with my sister. It was our first race and we got to experience it together! Can you say precious? We did the 5k because we aren't as intense as all the 10k runners. But next year, watch out all you 10k'ers... The Manzo sisters are coming for you.

 It was a really good experience even though some nice gentleman pushed me... 

The second half of the day was spend at my aunt and uncle's house where some of my dad's side congregated. It was a full day of laughing, eating, eating, laughing and eating.

No, it didn't end there. On Friday, my mom, dad, sister and I took on another part of the fam, my mom's brother, his family and my grandma. It was so great so see those sweet people.

Oh and then I saw Michael Bublé in concert that night making it the best night of my life but since I could go on forever, I'll stop. 

Let me just say I am very thankful for Michael Bublé. God knew what he was doing with that man.

But wait there's more.

On Saturday came the last of our family Thanksgiving celebrations. We went to my mom's cousin's house where I got to see my wonderful cousins. Again, laugher and eating were the night's main ingredients.

Three nights, three celebrations, only one food coma, and a lot of family time. 

Thanksgiving for the win!

What a fun little Thanksgiving celebration that was. By reading that, you unknowingly supported my slight rebellion. I'm thankful you did ;)

About 90% of my family isn't pictured. BUT I STILL LOVE THEM. 

Proud of my participation metal. Not just anyone gets one.

Cousin Lovin

Coffee all the time. Thankful for coffee. Mmmmm coffee.

Expert Shuffler

My sister told me the glasses made me look like a hipster.

Charlie: the newest edition to the clan. He fits in quite well.

MB 

MB

When we are all together, great things happen.

Always always always always laughing

Friendsgiving

Every year, I am just amazed at how quickly the holidays sneak up on us. 

It feels like just yesterday I was at the beach, laying on the warm sand and trying so hard to soak up as many rays as possible. (Because just because one lives in Southern California, doesn't mean they get a great tan in five minutes. Sorry to burst anyone's bubble.)

But now it's lovely fall, my tan is gone, and the holidays are here.

It didn't hit me until tonight when I had my very first "Friendsgiving" with a group a people whom I love so dearly.

They are especially wonderful because not only are they the most fun and gracious people to ever grace this planet, but they are my sister's friends from high school. Four years older than me and they still let me hang out with them, and I am So Thankful for them!

And yes, we did go around the table and say what we are thankful for.

Because why not? It's Thanksgiving and we're thankful. It seems only fitting.

The whole evening was just so lovely. Of course the company is the most important part, but food is at a close second. The hosts made a gourmet meal including turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and a cranberry pomegranate sauce that blew my mind, just to name a few.

Needless to say, I was a happy camper.

After the amazing Thanksgiving meal, we played some games, had a little dance break, then played some more games.

All in all, the night was a success.

The night was so lovely that I neglected to take pictures so I stole this from the host, Elizabeth.
This meal was as delish as it looks.

So this year, I am thankful for the grace and love of Jesus Christ, my always loving family, the best of friends, my health, espresso machines, laughter and community.
I could go on, really.

Everyone can always use a little reminder of how special they are to someone, so don't forget to tell your loved ones you're thankful for them this week.
Let the eating begin.
xoxo