Thankful

Well, the family has left, the fridge is overflowing, and the dogs and kids are exhausted. We are so very thankful this year for so much, and we had a wonderful Thanksgiving with our family (although we missed you Dad!). Yesterday was probably the most laid back I've ever been hosting Thanksgiving and I'm not really sure why. It was busy, and I was more in-charge than I've ever been without my Dad here being co-chef, but for some reason it was especially good. After dinner we convinced everyone to play a round of Cranium and it was hilarious. Today everyone came over for brunch and then we took a walk, the kids went fishing, we gave campus tours, and everyone hung out and helped finish off the pies. It was a relaxing, perfect family gathering (minus one) and we are so thankful for these past 2 days.

We're also very thankful for the next 2 days of relaxing with *our* little family. Tonight *A* and (H) gave a singing and dancing show while ^J^ played the ukulele. This weekend is our traditional time to start crafting Holiday presents so I'm especially looking forward to snuggling on the couch in front of the fire reading and knitting. My mom got the kids a Playmobil nativity set so they are totally engrossed with that right now. You should hear some of the stories coming out of our mini Bethlehem...tonight I heard Mary exclaim "Oh, no! I lost my hat (her veil had fallen off), Shepard will you get it for me?" and since we have hidden the baby Jesus until Christmas, there are all kinds of stories like this:
"Where is Jesus?"
"I don't know, let's go look for him!"

It's too perfect. Happy post-Thanksgiving weekend to you all!