The Spirit of Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving has been a little bit different for me. Of course at this time of year I always reflect upon my many, many blessings but I have learned this year, especially, that Thanksgiving is not just about a big turkey dinner and great football game.

I just finished a ten week parenting class (offered through BUY-I) in which we talked about different topics each week (such as "A House of Order", "How to Teach our Children to Feel/Recognize the Spirit", "Graditude"). The class was absolutley wonderful and I intend on taking the next "semester" starting in January. In our Gratitude class, we talked a lot about Thanksgiving and what a perfect holiday it is to set the tone and prepare us for the following holiday and in which we should reflect upon the Savior's birth - Christmas. Only through truly prepared, grateful hearts and minds can we be appreciate what His birth truly means and the blessing it is in our lives. In this new light my Thanksgiving was enjoyed so much more.

On top of that inspired message (thank you Sister Tanner), our Thanksgiving was made extra special by being able to visit our family. Early Thursday morning we set out for "Grandma and Grandpa's house". The kids were so excited. Cash usually doesn't wake up until around 8:30 am and even though we woke him at 6:30 am he was in such a hyper, excited mood because he knew where we were headed that day (for him to be anything other than groggy and cranky that early is somthing of a miracle). We arrived just in time for a delicious meal of none other than the traditional mashed potatoes and turkey. Delicious! We enjoyed the holiday with my younger brother and his fairly new bride. It was so good to see them and catch up.

The following day, we headed to Rigby to see Ty's family. His older brother, Trevor and his family, were up to bless their new baby Ryley whom we hadn't seen yet. All of Ty's family was able to attend and participate in the blessing - what a blessing in and of itself. Here's a pix of all the cousins on that side (minus the new baby):

Trustin, Aleynah, Cash, Vanna, Hallee, and Blyss

They played their little hearts out all day long. That night, we then headed back to Lava with my family, where on Saturday, we did various things - Ty and Cash and Grandpa went fishing, my mom helped me mend a couple things, the kids went for a four-wheeler ride and went sledding.

That night we got together with all my other siblings and had pizza and visited. It was so good to see everyone there too. Again, the kids played and played until...well, past the point of their heart's content.

All the cousins at the table enjoying their chow (minus my baby niece Lucy).

Jenna, Avery, Cash, Mtichell, Colton, Roger, Dawson, McKaydee, Vanna, and Sophia

Sunday, we went to Church with my parents, had dinner, and headed home. We were very fortunate to have good roads both down and back home. We just had a wonderful time! After a trip like that we truly realize our many blessings and are again so thankful for family! Happy Thanksgiving!