Today was one for the books, as Lochlan likes to say! Dave and I were blessed to celebrate an early Thanksgiving with the Bevans and Raslask clan. Before we got together with everyone, the two of us attended St. Peter's Church in American Fork. It was not a big church, nor a fancy one, but it was packed. We left feeling spiritually topped up to start a new week!
We headed to Carly and Ryan's and worked on what would become an amazing Thanksgiving feast - turkey with all the trimmings! My contribution to the meal was to try and distract the girls and keep them out of everyone's way (so many talented cooks in the kitchen!) but I must admit getting to play with them was exactly what I wanted to do! They are so sweet, so funny, and so energetic - you can't help but laugh and smile when you are in their presence!
We grabbed some lunch and headed out for a walk that included ducks in a pond, foliage all around and mountains in the distance - and the weather was perfect! All ten of us walked a little trail, laughing and talking - and being entertained by Cambree and Harker. I think Harker would have taken a duck home with her if she had been allowed!
When we returned to Carly and Ryan's, the girls quickly hopped on their trampoline and went to town, jumping, twirling and flipping (even Ryan got in on the action, doing "bouncies" with the girls so that they caught some good air, giggling the entire time) - and soon many of their little neighbourhood friends joined them! It was the cutest thing. Kids are constantly in and out of each other's houses. I just love the sense of community that surrounds Carly and Ryan's home. Clearly, family is of the utmost importance in their part of the world - I wish it was for everyone.
That meal - there aren't enough superlatives to describe it. Turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, two kinds of dressing, roasted Brussel sprouts, green bean casserole, and these amazing buns - it was all sooooo good! And then pumpkin pie and tea for dessert - does it get any better?
Cambree said grace - and the sincerity in her heart was so sweet and beautiful. She did a wonderful job. A bit later, everyone shared what they were thankful for - and that was an emotional experience too!
My heart was - and is - full.
Cambree and Harker had a cute little video they made and played for us, with Harker as the star of the show - she is hilarious! We also looked at photos of Carly and Ryan's trip to England and France - those two know how to have fun travelling! And Carly (as always) did amazing research on the best places to go - and to eat!
Thank you, Anne, Russell, Lauren, Carly, Ryan, Cambree, Harker and Andi for an incredible visit. We might not see each other often, but when we do, that time is filled with love and laughter!
Back to Roberto, and back to reality...in a few days!
Good night to all,
your Roving Redhead xoxo
