What a lovely day. Finally the weather dropped. I thought we might be headed for another of those shorts-and-tank-top holiday seasons as temps have stayed stubbornly in the high 80’s. We began the day by over-sleeping, followed soon by packing the car while grabbing glimpses of the Macy's parade on our way in and out. Finally, under clear blue skies and temps in the 60's, we were ready to head out. Perfect weather for our drive to San Antonio to greet baby Parker. First stop: Mother’s retirement home for a delicious Thanksgiving Day buffet lunch. After getting her settled back comfortably in her unit, we headed east on the freeway. Highway traffic was surprisingly manageable all the way into the Alamo city. Okay, now for the news.

SHE IS A MOST GORGEOUS BABY GIRL!!! I mean, seriously, she is magnificent. Beautiful, peaceful, and more alert than I’ve seen a newborn in a long time. Her parents say it’s because no drugs were involved in her birth but I’ve seen other babies born naturally who haven’t had her level of immediate and gently intense alertness. It is a joy to observe the love and pride in her parents eyes. Also important to note that the newborn in the family phenomenon is back. It was clearly observable all evening as three sets of grandparents just stared at this beautiful new little person. Okay, well, yes, there was also the passing around of the princess. And yes, there were intermittent cruises back to the lavish food-filled 20ft long Thanksgiving table but always followed by a quick return to rejoin the reverent staring. Happens every time. Adults just quietly staring at this beautiful, healthy new little family member and giving thanks. So the day ends with temps in the 40's, the promise of tomorrow with Parker, and finally a hint of the holiday season. It is indeed a day of Thanksgiving.