thanksgiving

Our Thanksgiving was fairly simple this year.  But lovely, and delicious.  We watched a video online on how to cook a moist, flavorful turkey as well as how to carve it.  We are grateful for the internet-- and all those who share their wisdom so generously, especially in cooking.  We are grateful for our home and for our wild backyard that allowed me to trim a few vines and branches for our table.  We are grateful for the food we ate, despite the shocking lack of pictures.  We're grateful to live close to Ian's family and for the joy that Pappy and Nonna bring to our house.  We're grateful for aunts and uncles that make things fun and play with our kids.  We're grateful for simple games and traditions that remind us to set days apart to make them special.  We're grateful for music.  We're grateful for friendships.  We're grateful for hot water and working central air/heat.  We're grateful for Ian and his creative endeavors that provide for us.  We're grateful for our working vehicles.  We're grateful for our little babes and the chance we have to watch them grow.  We're grateful for our knowledge of Jesus Christ and how It enhances our lives and teaches us to be better.

thanksgiving

Ian and I hosted Thanksgiving for the first time ever this year.  I did not expect to be in charge of the most important meal of the year for a long while yet...so we were a trifle nervous.  But not really.  The majority of the work went into the day before and we had a head start in the morning to be totally prepped and ready by the time dinner began.  I am so grateful for a husband who enjoys cooking.  All the dishes that were brought by everyone were so excellent, which aided a lot.  We had more than enough yumminess this year!


Guest List:
Ian's parents and siblings,
his uncle David and David's wife Shana,
and his cousin April, her husband Brian and their six kids.

Things we've made note of for next time:

--Buying a couple tablecloths isn't a bad idea.  Also... a turkey baster, meat thermometer, and more than one pie tin

--Watch a video on how to carve a turkey before Thanksgiving, not after.  Haha.

--Don't worry about making too much because leftovers are the best.  But maybe make less carrots next time.  Shepherds pie is a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes

--Kids don't really eat that much in public places.  They eat mostly basics, like rolls and potatoes.  You don't need to count their portion as much, but do make extra rolls

--Cleaning up after after the meal has settled a little bit, with everyone's help, was really great and took away the stress of the aftermath



We're thankful.  We are especially grateful this year for our son.  We comment on it every day, and marvel often that he's ours and that he's here.  We're grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ.  We are grateful for eternal families.  We are grateful to be healthy and comfortable and together.  And I'm grateful for a holiday that reminds me to focus on what I have.  It's a good thing.  It's a good life.