I have a feeling this will be my last post until after Thanksgiving. (And I also have a feeling that's one of the dumbest titles I've ever given one of my posts.)

But anyway....I have apple pies to make, bread to bake and a house to clean. My sister and I will essentially be trading spaces--Dan, the girls and I will be traveling to my mom's for Thanksgiving, my sister will be coming here--staying at our house, taking care of our chickens, keeping the fire burning--and spending Thanksgiving with our dad and grandmother.

In the meantime, a few odds and ends:

Last night, after several attempts, I conquered my fear of the dpn. I have some serious mental-block, motor-skill issues when it comes to dpns. I cast on several times yesterday afternoon, got twisted, frustrated and gave up. Then last night, I decided to give it one more try. With a lot of jaw-clenching and concentration I finally mastered them and I'm feeling pretty much like dpn hot-stuff. All I want is a pair of Leslie's Toast-for my too-long-arms, too-short-sleeves, freezing cold farmhouse. And I'm ignoring the fact that Ms. Urchin can whip up a pair in two hours. Maybe I should have started this in July.

Emma and I did a little classic pinecone turkey craft for the babycenter blogs. Then we got a little carried away and started making them with all natural materials. It was sticky, sappy business. Emma decided she needed hair extensions au naturel. I think we need to get out more.

And can I just say how much I love having these chickens and guineas? They are so much fun--my favorite part being able to go outside and call: "HEEEERE guinea, guinea, guineas!" or "Heeeere chick, chick, chickies!" And they come running--heads down, feathers spread just a little, waddling as fast as their little yellow legs will carry them, hoping I'll have a big scoop of grain to toss them.

I also love watching Emma, carrying her bright green bucket out to the coop with the whole entourage skittering behind her. I can only imagine how much I'll love these girls when they start giving us eggs. (I do mind however, that two of the girls have become quite fascinated with the road. I have to admit that I hold my breath every time I walk outside, checking the yellow line for "feathers". yikes.)

And last of all, just a few words to say how thankful I am for all of you. I can honestly say that I am touched daily by your emails full of kind words, encouragement, understanding, humor. Thanks for making this documenting of life so enjoyable and fulfilling.

Happy Thanksgiving.
xo.