Thanksgiving 2011

Drew's family decided to come to our house for Thanksgiving this year, and I must admit I was quite excited to host my own Thanksgiving.  I had never done it before and it was fun to make all of the preparations and look forward to such a fun time with family. Unfortunately, as Drew's parents were driving from Kansas to our house they received a call that informed them that an explosion had taken place at the salvage yard shop that Drew's dad owns and that it had burned down and one of his employees had been severely burned and had to be life-flighted to Kansas City.  Although this was some very devastating news and we were constantly thinking about the situation, we were still able to have a lovely Thanksgiving weekend and we truly enjoyed the time we got to spend with our family.

 THE turkey.  It was my first one (although Drew's mom Linda helped quite a bit) and I was very happy with how it turned out. 

 Ava and her grandpa

 Our friends the Stones were kind enough to join us as well.  

 Ava was very excited to eat all of that yummy food!

 The place setting.  Meriah, Joshua and Caleb helped me make the little turkey clips and goodie bags the night before.  

 Getting ready to eat!

 All of the food that wouldn't fit on the table!

 Oh look, I was there too!!

 My favorite part, the PIES!  We had pumpkin cheesecake, banana cream (made by Becca Stone), apple and lemon meringue pies and I am proud to say that I tasted and enjoyed every single one!  Perfection!

The day after Thanksgiving we went to Hardee's Reindeer Ranch which is near our home.  We got to  pet the reindeer and feed them some graham crackers. 

 Ava wasn't too sure about a huge antlered creature getting up close and personal, but with Drew's help she warmed right up to them!

 Caleb, Joshua and Meriah

A little family photo under the antler arch.

What a wonderful weekend!  We were reminded of the many blessings that we have, especially the blessing of the Gospel and of our eternal families. We know that we have much to be thankful for, and hope to live each day with more gratitude for all that we have.