Stanksgiving

None of us can say "Thanksgiving" the proper way anymore. When Jonathan who is now 10, was 2 and 3ish he put an "S" in front of all his "T's" so it's forever now Stanksgiving to us. We had a wonderful holiday! We spent it with my side of the family at a church. I know it doesn't sound all that cozy and while we do miss some of the comforts of home there are many advantages. For a group our size it makes set up, serving and clean up so much easier. The kids absolutely LOVE having the run of the gym with cousins galore and a plethora of aunts-uncles to play many many running, dodging, sliding, ball throwing games with. They were all hot and sweaty and had to take a cool off break outside. They even played a game with a tack tapped to their nose and a balloon strapped to their botoxies (another family word for bottom). Each person had to try to keep their balloon alive while trying to pop others balloons. It's crazy and makes for good exercise and lots of laughs. We had more than enough dinner to eat but after the first round of food settled we started in on delicious pies! It was great! We laughed, chatted, sang, played a few games, threw M&M's up and caught them in our mouth! I won, even though no one challenged me I still won! It was a great day and my kids were in Hog Heaven being with cousins all day. We stopped over to Mike's parents and guess what? Ate some more! Ahhh Glorious Stanksgiving! Such a relaxing, mellow, day! It was really perfect EXCEPT Mike-I missed my Dad so much! He passed away in June and he is sorely missed at family gatherings. We were both very aware of the hole he left! Thanksgiving was his favorite holiday. He said you get all the benefits of Christmas without all the hustle bustle! He always had such beautiful and kind things to say to everyone! It's hard to have him gone! We miss him! Love Allyson