Giving Thanks

Note - these pictures aren't really in order, I can't get the blog to work like I want it to today :(

We traveled to Mississippi for Thanksgiving this year. On the way down, we stopped over in Shreveport for a family pool party at Nana and Papa's - praise goodness for heated pools and hot tubs in November! It was a blast and the kids loved playing with their cousins!

It was wonderful to be "home" for a few days. We saw lots of old friends, all of whom I am extremely thankful for (Brittany, Emily, Susan and Kelly) and had good down-time with GanGan and Big Daddy. The kids love their grandparents and got right into the Mississippi groove! We also had a special treat - my cousin Morgan (who has always been like my brother) and his wife Emilie were passing through on their way to her parents' house and we got in a good visit. They live in Atlanta, so we rarely see them so it was just an awesome visit. Love Morgan and Emilie! Anna and Matt were in, too, so we got a front porch picture and talked a lot of football and random TV :)

On Thanksgiving day, we did a little parade watching then headed to Aunt Read and Uncle Edward's house in Laurel. I practically grew up there with my cousin Tally so it was really nice to be in their home. We got to spend some time with my aunts and cousins - the kids loved hanging out with "big kids" Madison, Cam and Caleb, who were absolutely wonderful with them. They blew up balloons, played on the playground and played football with Kendal and Matt. During dinner, they sat at the famous "kid's table" - Evie too! - and ate just fine on the china! With the exception of Evie opening and spilling the crystal shaker of pepper all over her plate, they behaved like perfect ladies and gentlemen!

The most special part of the day was the kids' interaction with my precious grandmother, Mama Diket. She is 98 (!!) but still plugging along. She has a very hard time seeing/hearing but still carries herself with dignity and grace and has a wonderful sense of humor. The kids hugged on her and talked with her - watching them bond with Mama Diket is something I've always prayed for. It was a blessing for sure.

We had a wonderful week - finished up with the LSU game in Baton Rouge with some of our LSU and Arkansas friends. Awesome - Geaux Tigers! GanGan and Big Daddy watched the kids - they are troopers!