Thanksgiving

I was actually really excited for Thanksgiving this year.  It was really nice that Drew's family was able to come out and spend the holiday with us and it was nice to have some friends over too.  I was really excited to cook a full Thanksgiving dinner because this was the first year that I got to do that.

Cooking kept me pretty busy, but that is okay because I really enjoy it.  Thus year I made four pies, five dozen rolls, stuffing, baked veggies, twice baked potatoes, cranberry sauce and I helped Drew prep a small ham and a 22 lb turkey for the smoker. I also had fun putting together a veggie tray and cheese and cracker spread for appetizers.  I love hosting events, especially when there is a lot of food involved so this was a treat for me.

After eating our yummy lunch, we got to watch some football and play some games together.  We had a lot of fun playing Apples to Apples and enjoying each others company.  For the most part we kept Thanksgiving low key, but it was very enjoyable that way.

I am so grateful for the wonderful thanksgiving that we had and I am so grateful for the people who came to help us celebrate.  I have been so blessed in my life and I can not begin to count all the blessings I have been given.  I love taking time and reminding myself that I have so much and that I should be grateful for that, rather than worrying about what I don't have.  I am so much happier if I focus on being thankful and I love how much Thanksgiving reminds of that fact.  I just want to take this moment and list ten things I am grateful for.

1. Heavenly Father and Christ: they provide guidance, peace and comfort in my life whenever I need it.
2. My wonderful husband, Drew: he provides support whenever I need it and helps demonstrate strength and perseverance in this life that strengthens me.
3. My adorable children, Alden and Anders: they are such a joy and teach me so much.  I love serving them and having them to brighten my days.
4. My wonderful family: They are always there for me and I love the wonderful relationships I have with all of them.  I cannot express enough gratitude to them for the love and support they have given me, no matter what is going on.
5. The beautiful scenery I can visit: I love traveling and seeing the beautiful things in nature that God has created for us.  I am so grateful for all the chances I have had to travel and explore new places.
6. The food we have to eat and the opportunities I have to bake and cook different things: I love baking and cooking and I am so glad I have the opportunity and means to do that on a regular basis.
7. My wonderful church community: It provides so much support, assistance and friendship
8. My friends both near and far:  I have learned that no matter where I go in life I will always be able to find friends.  Every time I move I struggle, because I don't want to say good-bye or loose the friends that I have, but I have realized that no matter how far away I move, I can always stay in touch and close with my friends.
9. The prophets and apostles who guide our church:  I love listening to General Conference every six months to hear their guidance and advice for our lives.
10. Chances to play, goof off and have fun with family and friends:  I love smiling, laughing and having fun, so I am always grateful for chances to do that.

Our Thanksgiving feast.  I was so excited to use our nice glasses and serving platters!  I really do love opportunities to host.

We had a lot of fun playing Apples to Apples after our meal!

Alden had fun spending some time with Papa!

Anders is such a happy boy and I love seeing him and Drew having fun together.

It was a lot of fun seeing Alden and Anders get to spend time with their grandparents and aunts!

This was our set-up in the kitchen (after we cleared the table).  We had all the hors d'oeuvres out on the island and then we had to use our kitchen table and card table to fit everyone for the meal.  It was a wonderful Thanksgiving and I am so glad that we had family and friends to join us.