Thanksgiving

This year we celebrated Thanksgiving with Gene's side of the family at Lorraine's new house. It is finally big enough to hold everybody though, ironically enough, this year not every one could attend. We gathered around 3:00pm and while the ladies worked in the kitchen (isn't that how it always goes?) the men sat around talking and relaxing on the sofas, though NOT watching a football game since she doesn't have a TV. I actually enjoy Thanksgiving football games, so that was a bit weird for me. I brought my Black Friday ads to sort through and plan my routes. I had fun talking with Nicole about shopping strategies and telling stories of past Black Friday experiences. The food was wonderful and everyone just hung out--grazing--visiting and enjoying the feast & company.

Afterward we drove to Felicia's so we could coordinate the shopping (which I got up at 3:45 AM to do--done by 9:30 AM!) and visit for a while. Megan slept over and Gene had to work the next day, so we all got to bed pretty early.

I LOVE Thanksgiving! This year I am so thankful for my family! Our home! Our health! Gene's work! Our freedom! And for the Gospel of Jesus Christ!!! On a slightly lighter note, I'm also thankful for: Jared (the other man in my life), my mother for always babysitting, Netflix streaming to our Wii, that my hair-health has improved, awesome neighbors with snow blowers and for all the wonderful family history that I've un-earthed in recent months!

Lorraine, Amanda & Lori working in the kitchen

Barbara, Gene, Verle & Mark laaaaazing around...waiting for FOOD!

A view down one side of the Thanksgiving table: Amanda, Nathan, Alex, Verle, Lori, Emma, Sarah, Megan, Hannah, Deanna, Jennifer (not pictured: Gene, me, Cody, Nicole, Brandon, Lorraine, Mark & Barbara plus other company that showed up later, renters of Lorraine's)

Yummy feast! Turkey, ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, salad,

sweet potato casserole, greenbean casserole and cranberry sauce.

The little kiddies table: Emmett, Gianna, Morgan & Grant

Cousin Alex reading a book to Morgan and Grant. Awww!
Hope everyone out there had a wonderful Thanksgiving too
and that you took a minute to count your blessing!