Giving thanks

This year was a special year

for Thanksgiving.

It was the first time in

quite a while

my whole family was together:

Mom, Dad, my brothers and sisters.

It was so awesome.

We also got to have my grandparents,

cousins, aunts and uncles from

mom's side together, too.

There were almost 50 people there,

so we celebrated at the church

near my parents'.

Several tables were set

with red tablecloths

and festive dinnerware and centerpieces,

thanks to mom.

Getting together wouldn't be complete

without the guys shooting some hoops.

Dad carved the turkey, as is tradition,
and gave Austin some pointers
along the way.

My cute sis, Lindsay,
and my future niece!
My brother Justin and
his wife, Andrea.

Let the feast begin!

My little brother, Mitch.

I'm surprised he wasn't

first in line!

(Just kiddin', bro)

My wonderful grandparents.


It was a feast to remember,
and a wonderful chance
to think about all
we have been blessed with,
especially,
FAMILY!

Rowdy

Jordan was busy using the computer

one night.

When we saw what she had been making,

we got a good laugh.

Silly girl.

What would we do without her

to keep us smiling?

Haulin' wood

This year

Doug bought some split oak

to help heat our home

during the winter.

So our lucky kiddos

were excited to get to help

haul and stack it.

They are such awesome workers!

We are looking forward

to having lots of cozy nights

by the fire this winter!

Boo!

This year

we were invited to the home of

some good friends who had their own

pumpkin patch

and the kids each got to pick out

their favorite one to take home.

The kids then designed faces

that would bring their pumpkins to life.

Aren't we a scary bunch?

Heading to the ward Halloween party.

It was on Halloween,

so we only had to get dressed up once. :)

We came home that night with some

fun memories,

good times,

and waaaaaay too much candy! :)