Saturday, December 04, 2010

Our Turkey Day

I know this post is a little late since December is in full swing, but I wanted to be sure to write a little about our wonderful Thanksgiving. We finished the month off by putting the last leaf on our Thanksgiving tree. It was neat each week to take the time to reflect on all our blessings, big and small. We really are so blessed!

(sorry for the over exposed blurry picture.
I'll have to get a better one next year!)


On Thanksgiving day we did something a little different and had our meal at Balboa Island, fun. As we pulled up to the house most of the family was there to greet us. I thought to myself that I already felt so "full" and I had not had a bite to eat. Let me explain - as I looked at all the family gathered together and watched the cousins from both generations greet each other with big hugs, I could feel my heart swell. I had that same feeling as we sat on the deck of Dave's parent's house over the summer visiting with all the family. I just feel so blessed to be a part of wonderful families with amazing examples in the generations before us. And so many sweet spirits in the little ones we have been so fortunate to have join our families. It was a great feeling. Of course the meal was delicious so I was able to fill my tummy as well. Thank you so much to everyone that prepared the food and made the day perfect!

Enjoying our meal on the lawn
Serving up the goodness
Hillary and Emily were home - yeah!! Emily's 18th birthday was on the same day so we were able to sing to her and help her celebrate!
We got to spend time with Matthew and Brooke over the holiday weekend. I didn't take any pictures which I am bummed about. I think Brooke was up getting something when I shot this one so I don't even have one of her. I'll have to do a better job when they come back for New Years!
Baby Kailyn celebrated her first Thanksgiving. Mama Christina took a break to enjoy her meal. I'll have to get a picture of Kailyn at Christmas. She is growing so fast.
Brady stole 3 rolls from Dave's plate before Dave was actually able to eat one himself. The little guy has gained a love for the famous rolls early.
Brady enjoying the turkey
Baby Reid. Isn't he perfect! Each time I see him I feel like Stacey has just opened a Cabbage Patch box and is holding the sweetest doll. The past few times I've been with Reid I've had flashbacks of playing with my Cabbage Patch doll, James Victor. I loved that doll! When Reid sucks his thumb I just love it.
Audrey wanted to make center pieces for the tables. She came up with these. I think they are so cute!
Aunt Shauna had a fun craft for the kids to make. It was a turkey made from candy. They had a great time making them. They loved the fact they got to eat their hard work.
Carter's creation
Brady's creation
Audrey's creation



This picture Stacey took is precious. I think it sums up the day. The happiness that comes from being together and enjoying all the lovely moments in life.

7 comments:

burtons*north said...

awesome pics! i recognize elis little coat on brady. tear tear. why do the kids have to grow up so fast.

Alysha Sladek said...

Looks like so much fun!! That last pic is so sweet

Cara said...

Glad to see how the day looked since we didn't get there until night :( We do have sooo much to be thankful for and are soo lucky!!! Next year I need to figure out how to be there for all the yummy food!! Glad there were some rolls saved for us....I'm pretty sure I ate 5!!!!!

Stacey Salmon said...

It WAS a fun day!! I am so tankful we live near you guys. We love spending time with guys.
SS

Shauna Brown said...

Okay, so did you want to make me cry?? Seriously, I really missed all of you soooooo much this year! Is it the pregnancy hormones?? I'm so glad everyone had such a wonderful time. I really love our CRAZY family so much!

Nielsens said...

audrey is such a mini you! it's so fun to see the pics! glad you guys had great thanksgiving!

Matt and Brooke said...

We had so much fun visiting! you got some good pic's! Thanks again for coming with me to Trader Joes and helping me get good stuff!