November and December have been crazy busy, yes crazy busy, in a good way. I LOVE this season of thanksgiving and the Savior’s birthday and wish that we could somehow keep these feelings of love, tolerance, and gratitude with us all year long. But I digress. There are many moments I’d like to share (along with the little lessons I picked up), and I’m going to start with the Fall Family Fiesta that we hosted for my nephew Greg and his fiancée (now his wife) on November 30th.
Largely because of my sister-in-law Lisa’s superb planning and her lovely autumn decorations, it was a fun and successful event. Wanting to try a little something different, we opted for huge crock pots of chili (Paula Deen’s recipe), cornbread, cheese and sausage dip, sub sandwiches, chips and salsa, and a couple of desserts. The couple being honored opened some cool gifts, and then we played a Jeopardy game created by my sister Ann. She’s the creative one (smart one too…wonder if she’ll read this?).
The lesson I was reminded of in this case is that families are important. They’re a source of support, encouragement, and love (or should be). As everyone drove out of the driveway and back to their own lives, I couldn’t help but think of how I hoped each of them went away a bit better for having been here, a bit more buoyed up knowing that they are each a part of a loving network. In rough or sad days ahead, I hope everyone will be able to call forth a kind word, a hug, or a funny story to help them get through the trial. I reflect on times past with parents and grandparents, now deceased, and KNOW that those connections and shared times continue to help me today.
I couldn’t post all of the pictures we made that day, so I decided to include my immediate family. Aren’t those grandchildren adorable?
mom's musings 
MJ, I loved this post! With regards to more intensely recognising our blessings and family, this too is my favorite time of year.
I do wish, however, that I could be more purposely directed in the day to day observations of the blessings around me.
That pic you posted on the header of this post of fabulous! One doesn’t even have to look closely to notice that there is not a single “fake smile” amoung the adults! The little guy in the middle isn’t really sure though. lol
I’m guessing that the tall couple in the center of the photo are the ones who recently wed. I wish them a lifetime of love, happiness and answered challenges!
Our home is usually where the big get togethers are held, so I know how much fun the planning and preparations can be. Good for you for making that effort.
Finally, I too “went home” in December for my mother’s 80th birthday soiree! With five siblings it was quite the adventure. Here’s the link if you care to see how it went.
http://mssc54.wordpress.com/2008/12/10/red-jesus-and-the-white-bust/
Happy New Year!
Thanks for your positive comments! So nice of you to notice the genuine smiles. About my little grandson, he told me several times that day that he wanted to look serious. Yes, the newlyweds are in the middle. They're very happy now, and I hope they stay that way. They have the "tools" to work through their challenges, and they have a Christ-centered home.I'm going to visit the link to your mother's event right this minute. Aren't families fabulous?
I loved my Christmas card with this photo! it is an absolutely fabulous picture of the clan!!! Soon to be added to 🙂
Yes, so true about the new addition...just can't see little Colton's face yet.