Geddessentials

I realize we're a little late, but here are a few shots from Thanksgiving. We had Stephen's family over for a modest feast (this was our first time hosting for turkey day), and while sadly we didn't get a pic of everyone together... here are a few pre-meal shots that Stephen took. Food and family always go well together for us. Post-meal activities included playing soccer out back, playing Mexican Train dominoes, and laughing at Eli, who threw down some serious food. Not only did he eat a LOT of turkey, mashed potatoes (which he smeared all over face, hair, and ears), stuffing, green beans, etc., but he then proceeded to beg for apple pie and pumpkin cheesecake off anyone willing to share, and even those who weren't. That kid eats like a linebacker.

The next day was the Oakland temple lighting, the perfect occasion to fulfill Bennett's month-long wish of seeing "Jesus and Santa at the temple." (When we told him we were going to see the Christmas lights at the temple, his little mind jumped to the conclusion that both of them must live there.) Stephen's parents came with and made for fun company as we walked the grounds and visitors' center, waiting for the lighting. Benito didn't want to leave once the lights did come on, wanting to look at every different color and type of light, but Eli the escape artist had worn out the adults by that time . . . so we dragged B back to the car and caught our final glimpses of the Christmas temple and San Francisco by night in the background.

Bennett woke up Saturday morning itching to play football, so Stephen took him out to the front yard--which we rarely use since the kids always play out back--to rake leaves and play a little pigskin. I could hear B laughing and had to join in the action. And then came the rookie: little Eli woke up from his morning nap and made a stellar debut as family running back. Bennett also showed off his new bike-riding skills (don't worry, it's the neighbor girl's bike, although had our son chosen a pink and purple bike we'd have supported his decision) after we'd jumped in the leaves enough times to undo all of Stephen's raking.

Last Wednesday marked our third annual young women's Thanksgiving dinner, and guess who had the bless-ed opportunity of hosting the feast this year? Yours truly, so Stephen wanted me to document the fact that we had thirty people eating dinner in our house at one time. I cooked the turkey (my first ever, mind you), the other leaders brought delicious sides, and the girls brought their healthy appetites. I'm always surprised by how much food they can throw down! Even when they weren't eating, however, they seemed to have a good time; and as much as I stressed about having space for everyone, it was kinda fun to dust off all my stemware and dinnerware for an evening.