What a wonderful life I've had! I only wish I'd realized it sooner. ~Colette: Short Update

Time for a short update...

we have determined Joel has a gluten sensitivity, which means I am cooking one meal gluten free
as I have said before, I feel much better when I eat vegetarian, so since I am already making a special meal, I figured why not make 2?!
I sanded and painted out front window all by myself since it had been sitting 1/2 finished for much too long
I managed to finally install the curtains my mother in law made for my laundry room, still need one more panel, but it is looking much better already (thanks mom for the help)
Our back tile is installed, the front has been started but will now take over a week to finish as our tile guy is out of town
Our garage is fully finished
The front of the house has new stucco, the 3 sides should be done early next week, however I keep saying that......
I attended a beautiful baby shower for my cousin ~ baby "Benard" (not actually his name) was very lucky, and the shower was very classy. Gave me lots of ideas for the shower I am planning
I have started, and pretty much finished planning my sister in laws shower for March. I will buy the rest of the items I need when we go to the states next month. About 1/2 are already purchased.
Mika has learned how to grab onto things and pull herself up. She is not steady by any means, but she sure is trying. She is much better and faster at the crawling thing too.
I am hosting Thanksgiving dinner as I have for the past few years, and like in previous years my inlaws are bringing the turkey (thank you!), everyone else is bringing something too, which makes this a stress free event in many ways.
Joel and I went out with my parents for my mom's birthday to Beaujena's Restaurant. If you have never been, seriously GO! It was amazing. A husband and wife team with a surprise menu that is nothing but class. Tried things I never would have, but very delicious!