I’m going through something in my life right now. I’m not in a place to share about it, so you may be wondering why I am even bringing it up. I’m telling you this because despite how silly it may sound, I truly feel like I’m writing to a friend in this space and as a friend, I’d want you to know that as I share these fun, joy-filled pictures from our Thanksgiving getaway, there is an unseen ache behind them.
I know that in this season of excitement, love, and joy that I am not alone. Everybody has a pain, a battle, a loss, a struggle, or an ache of some sort that they are either currently facing or perhaps something they are still licking their wounds from. Nobody goes through life unscathed and while the holidays are truly magical, it can create a complex mix of emotions for many (here is a beautiful and helpful post from Lindsay on the topic). It’s just another reason to solidify my belief that we can always be kinder than necessary. You really never know all the details of what may be going on in someone’s life.
With where I am right now, I’m focusing more than ever on all the things I am grateful for. An attitude of gratitude is wonderful, but I find it to be more effective when it’s in practice. As I looked through these pictures to share with you, it’s abundantly clear that I have SO much to be grateful for and I am, I am truly appreciative for so many things. Among those things is you and this space, so thank you. I really mean it.
So about Thanksgiving… the girls and I headed down to Georgia on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
(Their outfits are from Old Navy, which is all 50% off today! I adore Hailey’s hat!)
We arrived at Nana and Papa John’s house around lunch time and the girls barely doled out hugs before begging to drive the Cadillac. The fall weather in the south this week was incredible, a chill in the air with beautiful sunshine, so we played outside for a long while before coming in. It’s no secret the girls love Belle so after months and months of asking to see the “real” Beauty and the Beast, we cuddled up on the couch (their matching pajamas are on super sale today!) to make it happen.
I had high expectations and I can tell you that the film surpassed them all. The sets were breathtaking, Emma Watson nailed it, and the whole movie was just plain enjoyable.
We also played Rumikub, toured a Southern Living home, did crafts with Grandma Betty, and confirmed that Mom and I are food twins. Her fridge is full of roasted vegetables, lentil hummus, and other goodies that are easily thrown together for a tasty lunch.
Midweek we packed up and headed over to my Nannie’s house, which is outside of Athens, GA. Every time we head that way I say I’m going to go early and spend time wandering around my alma mater, but alas, I always get pulled in by the country and Nannie’s homemade vegetable beef soup and skillet cornbread instead.
David joined us on Wednesday as we cleaned out Nannie’s gutters and prepared last minute Thanksgiving goodies. Oh let’s be honest, there is never much to really help with food-wise because my Nannie is the queen of organized preparation!
Thursday morning we wandered over to my uncle’s house to scour for pecans.
The girls loved filling our bucket and cracking them open, asking all the while if we could turn them into spiced pecans like Nannie does (the answer is yes, definitely). The crisp air made for the perfect Thanksgiving weather!
As usual, the main meal event was right around 12:30. The house was full and the food was hot (minus the turkey that apparently we didn’t let thaw quite long enough!).
I devoured all the southern vegetable goodness (okra and tomatoes! collards! black eyed peas! sweet potato casserole!).
As tradition goes, we headed out after the meal to a local Christmas tree farm.
Several people in our crew cut down trees and all of us took turns chasing the kids through the aisles and aisles of trees. Needless to say, my girls slept like logs that night (in their new Christmas pajamas!).
Friday morning we hugged Nannie goodbye and took off for South Carolina.
It’s really wonderful that a lot of my family all live within driving distance, which makes these road trips possible. After a brief two hour drive we arrived at Mema and Grandpa’s house! The girls couldn’t believe their luck- more cousins to play with! I think Hailey told me more than once that she was fine if we didn’t go back home because she was just having so much fun with all her cousins.
It’s crazy that we are at a stage now where all the kids can just go play, leaving the adults time to hang out and talk. My niece is now 11 years old and is basically a babysitter for Kaitlyn (a great one too!) so it’s easy to kick back and just enjoy watching all the fun. Also, if you don’t already own this Jumbo Sequence game, you really should; it’s great for kids of all ages!
We always end up with David’s side of the family (all yellow jacket fans) for the GT vs UGA game. But you know who you can always count on for support? David’s mom! She found the most perfect shirt to wear to show how much she loves both her daughters-in-law, the red and black bulldog AND the yellow jacket. Talk about a Mema divided…
This year, I (and half of Mema ;)) ended up on the winning side of this good old fashion hate game and I won’t lie, I enjoyed it! GO DAWGS (and bring on that rematch against Auburn!). The rest of the weekend was spent relaxing, playing outside, eating David’s Famous Chili, and just spending time together .
We packed up Sunday morning to head home after our whirlwind week of a getaway. It was really wonderful to see so much family; I feel truly blessed with such a loving one. As we neared home, we stopped by Josh’s Farmers Market to pick out our tree. We chose one then realized we had to have them deliver it because it wouldn’t fit on our car. At that point we wondered if we might have gotten a little too big for our Clark Griswold britches…
but that’s a story for another day!
Tell me,
what is your favorite Thanksgiving tradition?
or better yet… your favorite Thanksgiving food?!
I hope my US friends all enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday and that we all having something in our lives to be thankful for <3
Karen says
Being I am a long time reader I have noticed something has been up (so to say)….but hang in there. You dont need to share anymore but I will say a prayer for you and your family to get through whatever tough time is happening.
Brittany Dixon says
It seriously brings tears to my eyes that you picked up on me being off. It makes the connection I feel here feel even more real and that is truly a blessing to me. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers, Karen!
JOHN J STATHAS says
Thanks for sharing your wonderful Thanksgiving jaunt with family. Love the pics of everybody. Your spirit and message resonate well the love in your heart.
Brittany Dixon says
The big heart thing is a blessing and a curse isn’t it, Dad? We feel everything so much, but like you always have told me- it’s more of a blessing! <3
JOHN J STATHAS says
Blessing, yes. You can share the “ache” if you want.
Melissa says
Hi brittany…i also noticed something seemed a bit off and was thinking of you. I love reading and following your family adventures. Im glad you had a big dose of family time this weekend. I will keep you in my prayers and hope that things get better soon. Big hugs!
Brittany Dixon says
I can’t tell you how much it means that I’ve received messages and emails from people asking if things are OK. To know I have friends out there that are that observant truly touches my heart. Thank you for your message and prayers <3
Wendy says
Sorry to hear that it’s a rough time for you right now. It was really brave of you to share that because we often compare ourselves to the highlight reel of others without thinking they may be having a rough time.
I hope you are able to work through this hard time soon.
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you, Wendy. I hate even bringing anything up if I’m not ready to share openly, but like you said, I felt I couldn’t just share a giant post of smiley pictures (the “highlight reel”) when there is heaviness in my heart. I appreciate your kind words!
Sarah says
Just want to share my support for you and your family as you go through the tough times. I enjoy reading your blog and don’t always comment – so know I am here and praying for you!
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you, Sarah! The messages and love I’ve received really mean so much <3
Karen says
Thinking of you during this tough time. Looks like you had a wonderful week with lots of loving family.
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you, Karen <3
Jen says
Hugs to you, you sweet kind lady! I don’t know you personally, but if anyone can get thru a tough time, I would bet on you! You always make me smile 😊 I’ve told you before in emails, I wish I had done things a little differently when I was younger. But having sweet, young lovebugs in your life somehow makes you stronger and forces you to look forward. Even though they suck all the energy out of you while doing so! If you think emailing a stranger will help, I’m here🙂
Mamas have to stick together and support!
Brittany Dixon says
So good to hear from you, Jen, and thank you for your kind words and support! They mean so much!
Dana Barna says
Brittany- I’ve followed your blog for two years now and this is my first comment. I was happy to hear that you had a wonderful thanksgiving with your family! Just wanted you to know that although we have never met, I’m thinking of you during your tough time. You are a beautiful person inside and out! Much love from Ohio!!
-Dana
Brittany Dixon says
That means so much to me, Dana! Thank you for your comment and for reading <3
julie says
You know I am thinking of you so much right now and keeping you in my prayers. You have the most amazingly kind heart and soul and I hate that this is such a hard time in your life right now. Please know you can lean on me whenever!! <3 So much love for you!!
Brittany Dixon says
Thanks so much, Julie! It was great being able to chat with you and Jen. Y’all have such genuine, beautiful hearts! <3
montessoriishmom says
I’m so sorry to hear that you’re going through a tough time. i love reading your blog and your positivity, and will be thinking of and praying for you1 I’m glad you got to spend some good time with family 🙂
Kim says
I echo others I knew something was a bit off but knew if you wanted to share you would and when/if you do, you have a huge world out there to hug you! I’ve gone through a huge life changing moment. Had a miscarriage and 2 brain aneurysms with emergency brain surgery. If the pregnancy would have gone full term, labor would have most likely resulting in both our life’s being lost, silver lining? Not sure if I should be grateful that a dear child saved my life? I had a 1% change of survival from the rupture, so much blood in my brain. No signs, no history. I was an avid runner and ate healthy, perfect blood pressure, no drugs, hardly drank, etc. which they thought saved my life. Life is much different and slower these days but more grateful.
So after rambling on lol I know things can be hard and difficult but keep being positive as I would read your blog to be lifted up since my life changed and the smiles of every picture perked me up. Days I wish you lived right down the street, so uplifting and joyful.
P.S I was the girl that gave your girls the ears at Disney 🙂
HUGE!
Kim
Brittany Dixon says
Oh wow, Kim, what a story you have,; thank you for sharing it with me. In the past I probably would have said- you are so strong! But I’ve learned that people that go through hard times don’t get extra training in grief or strength, they just keep moving forward because that is the only choice. So hugs to you for your strength to keep moving forward, sharing your story, and for still sending such a positive light into the world- the girls absolutely loved those Minnie ears!! <3
Donna Mason says
I am so very sorry to hear that your heart is hurting right now Britany. I am happy you were able to spend such a lovely holiday week with your family. I am a long time reader and have emailed you previously regarding Koda. I pray your hard times will ease very soon and that everyone in your family is doing OK.
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you so much for your loving words, Donna. They really mean so much to me <3
Parita says
Thinking of you and sending loads of positive energy your way. 🙂 Glad y’all had a fun Thanksgiving holiday in GA. I’m so looking forward to going home in a month!
Brittany Dixon says
I hope you and your sweet little family have a wonderful trip back to GA!
Kathy says
Like others, I was sorry to read you hit in a hard spot right now. I too really enjoy your blog and have been reading for some time–watching your sweet little girls grow. Please know I will be praying for you too. Hoping that you know others care will help ease the pain. Take care!
Brittany Dixon says
I’m amazed at how much it does help to feel the love from others. I truly believe the human spirit is tied together and feeling support and prayers from people that care really does provide comfort, so thank you for your kind words <3
Ali says
Prayers and hugs.
Love the pictures you always manage to capture! Did the turkey ever get coooked? We have had that “turkey still frozen” issue before!!
We had 27 people at my parents’ house and we had great fun. My favorite tradition is getting our tree the day after, and my mom’s twice baked potatoes. I also love watching my girls make homemade bread that my grandma used to make and we have passed down. My mom (their nana) got to teach them how and that means a lot to her too!
Emmy says
Oh no.. I have been thinking of you often, especially when I open Instagram, as I was afraid something was going on.
Anyway, I hope everything will be OK and that you are staying strong. The holiday season can be tough or amazing, depending on where you are in life. <3
Your Thanksgiving week looked lovely! I can't believe how big Hailey is! When I was that age playing with my cousins was the best. And I am sure my folks appreciated having us out of their hair 🙂
take care, xo
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you so much <3
And yes, it's crazy that we are at a stage where the girls can mostly run off and play now. Such a difference from nap times and diaper changes!
Erin says
You’re so brave and such a beautiful person inside and out! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers whatever you are facing. Stay strong. Your blog is such a nice escape for me and your other readers! Hugs 🙂
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you, Erin! <3
Katie says
Hang in there, your positive attitude will surely carry you through!
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you, Katie <3
Anna says
Thinking of you and sending hugs and prayers your way. You have friends in all of us. Thanks for always being so honest with your readers.
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you, Anna <3 I feel the love you are sending and it really means so much!
Blair says
My favorite saying is be kind you never know what someone else is going through. Something I tell my children constantly. Sending prayers for peace and comfort for whatever you may be dealing with … those girls certainly are the best kind of distraction … Oh I love the south, this Gamecock adores SEC football … nothing like the South and their traditions!
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you, Blair <3
And yes, there is nothing quite like SEC football! I'm looking forward to cheering on my dawgs in the rematch against Auburn this Saturday!
Sabine says
Isn’t it weird how we can feel with people we don’t even know? As I read your post and some of your comments, I thought, wow. I’m a longtime reader, commented once or twice. I love your blog, your honesty, your strength, your warm heart, your humble, natural personality. Thank you for being here and giving so much. You’ve helped me through rough times in my life without even knowing it. I love to hear how you feel connected to your readers and that this helps you too. I’m sending you hugs and a big THANK YOU. (((Hug)))
Brittany Dixon says
Oh Sabine, your words brought a smile to my face. Thank you for your heartfelt comment and for being a part of this space. I appreciate the love so much <3
Josephine Sharpe says
I’m a long time follower and want you to know my prayers are with you. I love reading your blog for your real perspective and positive attitude, I admire you for that as it is something I struggle to do. I understand how difficult the holidays can be depending on what life throws at you. This time last year my 3 month old baby was having heart surgery and it was so stressful. I’m so glad you were able to enjoy Thanksgiving and create beautiful memories as a family even though you are hurting. I hope for a positive outcome for you situation. X
Brittany Dixon says
Sending you a big hug, Josephine. Thank you for your support and love. It means so much! And thank you for sharing your story. Watching your baby go through something like that had to be so incredibly hard. I’m hoping your Christmas this year is less eventful and full of love and making happy memories as a family!
Thank you for your prayers <3
Jodie Flicek says
Thank you for sharing. I thought something was off recently so it makes sense now that you share there is a heaviness hanging over you. May peace be with you. And for what its worth, this is why your blog is so amazing and loved–it is real.
Brittany Dixon says
Thank you so much, Jodie <3
Jennifer says
I must be a bad reader b/c I haven’t been able to tell that anything has been “off”. I admittedly sometimes find myself envious of your “perfect life” (though I know no one’s life is perfect). I hope whatever you are going through turns out ok and that you know you have lots of readers who are here to support you! I’m glad you guys had a nice Thanksgiving!