Joseph's First Thanksgiving

A first it was for Joseph: His first time on a farm. His first time to meet Grandma and Grandpa Payne. His first time to eat his feet. His first bonfire and hot dog roast. His first hay ride (and mine!). His first ride in a 1979 Chevrolet Bonanza. Everything about this holiday was memorable.

We all enjoyed ourselves very much. Aaron was as proud as a daddy could be, taking his wife and son to his grandparents' farm to celebrate the goodness of God. :) And celebrate we did. We ate. We talked. We slept. We ate more. We read good books. We reminisced. We laughed. We worshipped our Creator with feasting and praise. Thanks be to God!

His morning cup of coffee...Well, just morning cup, really.

Grandma Payne with a fascinated Joseph.

Grandma had him as he discovered yummy toes!

The Amish bakery wore him out, apparently.

The barn on their farm is at least 100 years old; the rafters are made of logs, from a time before saw mills.

This Black Walnut tree is in the yard, and the swing has been hanging on it for over 50 years.

The view looking across the front yard toward the west.

The farm means so much to my husband, and to the entire Payne family. Aaron's grandfather bought it, his father grew up on it, and Aaron's fondest memories come from it. I know he wishes that his son, too, would have a love for this piece of earth that God has given his family to work and to enjoy. Who knows? Maybe Joseph will carry on the Payne family farm someday. He does look awfully cute in overalls. :)

3 1/2 months

Mama doesn't have (or have had) much time to talk about how God is growing this little boy, but, if a picture is worth 1000 words, then I suppose a few of those are sufficient. :) Friday, Nov 17, was Aaron's 24th Birthday. To celebrate, we had a surprise *chocolate* party for him. Joseph was happy to attend. But he did end up being a bit of a party pooper, having gone to bed at 9:00.

Joseph's Papa and Uncle Mark were able to come from Fort Worth for the party! And boy, did Joseph love seeing them!

Although Meme wasn't able to come, she sent along a little gift. Flannel and plaid from Gap - Joseph is, indeed, Aaron's son.

So, wearing her gift to show his gratitude, Joseph expresses his sadness at Meme's absence.

On Saturday, Joseph spent some time upright on the couch. Although he enjoyed it, he would much rather stand up on someone's lap. Better view?

Sunday, after a beautiful walk through Sutton Wilderness, Aaron played a few songs for Joseph, who adoringly smiled and listened - and chewed on his hands.

On Monday, Joseph took it easy after his busy and exciting weekend. He relaxed in his crib, holding onto Eeyore for company, and watched his mobile til his little eyes couldn't take it.

And now, this afternoon, we're off to Missouri, to spend time with family on the farm, and to give Thanks for God's abundant blessings this year.

Foiled Again!

I checked on Joseph at 7:00 am, at which time he was laying flat on his stomach and sleeping soundly. At 7:35 am I go in again and here he is! On his back, sucking his thumb/playing with blankets, for the second time. I have yet to see him do this!

Photography isn't a Language

Sock it to me (in his new shirt Linda found!)

Sunday morning, 7:30 am: No noise? No cry?

Here he was, flipped over, and playing by himself!

The mullet *shudder*

Drool machine

Happy 3 Months!

Joseph celebrated by throwing a party for himself on his blanket. He invited his Duck, although the Ostrich did not receive the same honor. Oddly, his Rattle was also present at the festivities. And, of course, Mama was his Guest of Honor. :)