Thanksgiving 2013

We had the priviledge of having Grandma and Grandpa Bates with us the week of Thanksgiving.

Here is some of the fun we did.

First off, we LOVE when Grandma and Grandpa visit for so many reasons!

One of them being the super fresh and delicious food they always bring with them.

This time we enjoyed pecans, mandarins, pomegranates, lemons, and apples (seriously, did I forget anything?)

The girls had fun helping Grandpa crack the pecans. 

Pretty sure this one ate more than what actually got into the bowl.

Hannah had her Thanksgiving feast at Preschool on Tuesday.

She was suppose to dress like a Pilgrim or Indian.

She makes a super cute Indian, wouldn't you say?

On one of the days my family scheduled family pictures. 

Grandma and Grandpa Bates were gracious enough to tag along.

My mom decided it would be fun for all of us to be in Big J's Shirts.

Even Sam had a shirt.

Pretty darn good lookin' family right there!

We also took advantage of a fabulous camera and decent weather and took some family pictures of our own.

I am so pleased at how they turned out.
Thanks Grandma B!!!

We didn't get a great one of just Sam.  But I love this picture of all the kiddos!

We had Sam's Blessing on Wednesday, of course 

And then there was Thanksgiving on Thursday.

We had it at our house and joined forces with all my family.

Once again, Grandma and Grandpa were gracious to join in.

I wanted an "old fashioned" Thanksgiving with all of us together around a long table.

So that's what we did!

The food was absolutely delicious.

I mean you can't go wrong with a spread like this!

It was an absolute GORGEOUS day, so after dinner the kids went outside to play.

I HAD to take pictures to document this especially rare occasion.

They were having so much fun!

We did a lot of playing, chatting, reading, cuddling, gardening (grandpa) while G and G Bates were here.
The girls loved every minute of it!

Sam especially loved Grandma.  In fact some of his first real smiles were directed to her.

Grandma and Grandpa left friday morning to head to Boise.

We were sad to have them leave, but so appeciate the chance to have them here for a few days.

After Grandma and Grandpa left we met with my family at Mark's school for some good old fashioned exercise!
We pulled out all of the fun elementary gym toys and had a blast!
Remember the scooters?

  And Parachute?

Definitely a new tradition!!!

We are so grateful for the blessings in our life.
Especially our little family, immediate family, extended family, and ward family.
We love and miss you all!!!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!