We were so blessed to be able to go to Arkansas for Thanksgiving with my side of the family. We had been looking forward to the trip since last year and, at the last minute, the threat of icy roads dampened our hopes as to whether we would be able to make it. However, the Lord allowed us to get there and back home again safely, with zero road delays due to the weather! We also got to use our Pike Pass for the first time, which allowed us to go through the toll booths without stopping. That was a luxury!

We were able to see my sister and her family, my brother and his family (except for my niece, Amber, who was working), my Aunt Kathleen and all of my aunts and uncles on my mom’s side of the family. Oh, and my Mom! 🙂

I was unable to get photos of everyone, but I still got quite a few!

 Two of my handsome nephews from North Carolina, Andrew and David Allen.

 David Allen taught everyone how to play a bluffing game called “Mafia”. It was pretty fun. I got to be the mafia once and eliminated everyone in the town. I guess I’m kinda ruthless.

 I am so glad that he taught me that game. I like mafia. The game, not the real mafia.

Then some of the gang played Uno.

 Here’s my other NC nephew, Stephen. He’s a cutie, too! 🙂

 On Thanksgiving Day, my Uncle Gary and Aunt Linda invited us all up to the family farm in Batesville, Arkansas. They opened their home up to us and we all enjoyed a delicious meal.

 My Uncle Gary and my brother are now deep in conversation. Hmm… I’m beginning to see a pattern here.

 Here are a few of the cousins waiting for meal time. Later they got to ride the “mule” on the farm. That’s a 4-wheeler, not an animal.

 My uncle got this framed aerial photo of his farm. This is only part of it, but I thought it was lovely.

I was able to get a photo with my Uncle Gary before we left. He is my Mom’s youngest brother, and an amazing man.

Another fun thing that I was able to do while we were with family was learn to knit! I have been meaning to teach myself for years now, but never got around to it. Two years ago, my talented sister picked it up and taught herself. She has knitted scores of things since learning, she’s definitely a natural. Then, a few months ago, my second oldest daughter showed an interest in learning. We tried to teach ourselves from Youtube videos and books, but only managed to learn how to cast on. Over the holiday, my sister was able to show us the knit and purl stitch! So far, I have only knitted some of the ugliest pieces you’ve ever seen, but I think I’m improving. I love learning new things!

I have so much for which to be thankful each and everyday. My heart overflows when I begin to count my blessings, and at the top of the list is my wonderful family.