Thanksgiving

Abraham Lincoln established the annual celebration of Thanksgiving in 1863 during the Civil War. He said "We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth and power as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God... It has seemed to me fit and proper that [the gifts of God] should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged with one heart and one voice by the whole American people. I do, therefore, invite my fellow citizens . . . to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens."

As we reflect on the abundant blessings our Father has given us we are overwhelmed. We are thankful for our families, friends, food to eat, a comfortable home, a free country, and experiences that develop our characters and stretch our limits. We are truly blessed to share this thing called life with so many loved ones this holiday season.

This Thanksgiving we were lucky enough to host 20 of our favorite Calverts in our home for dinner: Mom & Dad Calvert; Bobby, Lisa & kids; David, Jenny & kids; and Taylor, Ashley & Callie. Calahan was in heaven with so many of his cousins to entertain him. We had a delicious dinner, including a yummy turkey that was transported all the way from Las Vegas, the famous Moody drink, and Uncle Ross's mashed potatoes. Here are a few shots from the big day:

The young adult/teenager table

Croix and Oliva hanging at the kids table

David and Jenny (aren't they cute?!)

Mom and Dad with Crewe (as usual, Dad's getting ready to do the dishes!)

Crewe and aunt Lisa

Are you serious? We can make a fire in this?!

Calyx and Kennedy checking out the desert

Group nap time -- Good meals are SO exhausting!

A Game of Scum -- the perfect end to the day