Thanksgiving

As the Thanksgiving holiday draws near, I am often torn between embracing a wonderfully prepared meal with family and feeling that the meal itself has taken precedence over what I believe the focus of the holiday should be--that which is an occasion to reflect, recognize, and verbalize the innumerable things in which we should be thankful. While this year was no exception, Dee and I did enjoy a really lovely evening at his mom, Sue (a.k.a. Ami's) house, along with Ray, Grandma, Cal, Jessica, Josh, Jackson, June, and their friends, Joel, Cassidy, and their two boys, Keaton and Nolan. Yes, that is correct, there were 10 adults and five children (all under the age of three mind you)! Sue prepared a beautiful dinner that was nothing short of a feast, and even with 15 people, we found ourselves loading up leftovers after the meal to last for a week! It was delightfully chaotic with all the kids, and a delicious meal indeed. If you're wondering what I am thankful for this year, here is the abridged list:
1. Dee--for so many reasons beyong being the most loving husband, friend, and father
2. Magnus--for teaching me there truly is such a thing as love at first sight
3. For the healthy baby boy that will join our family in March
4. For Sherman, who still shines in our eyes and loves us even when we don't take him for a walk everyday
5. For family and friends near and far, who love us unconditionally

The "boys table"
Magnus enjoys his first taste of a Thanksgiving meal.