Thanksgiving

Dear Leigh,

A 3.9! That's great! I'm so excited for you to graduate. What an accomplishment.

I can't believe that they would pay you so little, with your experience, especially after you've earned your Master's. I'm sure the DC area can offer you more, even with the cost of living what it is. I'll admit that the growth in that area is a little appalling, but you know that growth means jobs, and there are jobs a-plenty there. It's also a convenient three and a half hour drive from Morgantown...

I hope you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving.  We just spent several days at my sister in-law's house. My mother- and father-in-law and their respective spouses live in the same town, so we were able to see everyone on that side of the family. I was proud of Jeremiah--he has very different ideas about food than his sister (he prefers less white flour, butter, and sugar, and more fresh vegetables), but this visit did a good job of thanking her for hosting and complimenting the food.  All-in-all, it was a pleasant time, with only one negative remark about my FIL from my MIL, and one negative remark about NPR from my FIL, and maybe two small disagreements between Jeremiah and my MIL and SIL, both regarding his granddad, who is, unfortunately, not doing all that well.  Compared to the previous two visits, it was very relaxing, indeed.  I was even able to eat, which I was worried about, since I'd been feeling so sick for a month prior. Still, I'm looking forward to being with my parents for an extended period of time around Christmas, when I think I'll be able to truly relax. I'm also planning to get together with my old friend from high school, whom I haven't seen in close to three years. She's going to be just two hours away from my parents' house, and since she's usually ten hours away, in St. Louis, I figure I should take advantage of our proximity.

I also heard over Thanksgiving that my brother has a couple job interviews. I wasn't sure companies would be hiring this time of year, but I am, again, feeling hopeful.  I am imagining my family together at Christmas, me and baby healthy, my brother employed, and everyone at peace.

I'll be thinking of you on the first, eighth, and fifteenth of December!  I know you'll do well.

Love,
Kate

P.S. I have the all-important (at least in my mind) 10 week midwife appointment on Tuesday.  I have been clenching my jaw as I sleep, I've made myself so anxious about it (it was the 10 week appointment when I learned I was going to miscarry, last time). It's becoming difficult to eat, my jaw is so sore... But hopefully that'll clear up Tuesday night. I'll let you know how the appointment goes.