Preparations!

I have to say that hosting this year is really no big deal. I am only in charge of the Turkey, 2 pecan pies and gravy. I am making the pies tonight, Daniel is cooking the turkey tomorrow and the gravy will be made once we are ready to eat.

However, I have done 6 loads of laundry, swept the kitchen floor (I'll mop after the festivities), ran the dishwasher twice, prepared two recipes of bubble bread (sticky buns, monkey bread...the ones made with Rhodes dough balls and cook & serve butterscotch pudding) Yummo! The first time I had them was Christmas morning at my Aunt Heidi's house in 1995! My kids know it is a tradition every holiday morning. Deonna started asking about them a few days ago! I also watched the Finals for Dancing with the Stars with Robel (Yay Donny Osmond!!!) Mormons rock the house, you know it... (chanted). Had 6 kiddos to care for while Mom & Dad Grove & Rhonda went last minute shopping for tomorrow. PS...Costco is NOT the place to be the day before Thanksgiving however, they did score 2 Costco pumpkin pies! I am glad I talked Rhonda into leaving her kids here to play!

I am thankful for so much!
In no particular order just as they come to mind...and yes, I am sure I will miss many that I am definitely thankful for but my mind cannot produce at this very moment.

• For an amazing husband who is an excellent provider and lover!
• My oldest son is home with us safe and sound from his native country, Ethiopia.
• My husband has a good job that is secure. (He even brought home a bonus check today!!!)
• My newest nephew, Gideon Eric Kestner arrived safely & HEALTHY!
• That my family is eternal.
• For Birth Mothers!!!
• That my children are healthy!
• That I can read and write!
• That my Grandma Kestner is alive and well at age 86! Yay for a healthy mind.
• That I will see my Dad again some day!
• That my Mom is still alive and a part of my daily life!
• That my children are receiving a good education!
• For each and every one of you!
• For a BIG family!
• Reliable electricity and fast internet (reminded of these luxuries in Ethiopia this summer!)
• For drinkable tap water ( " )
• For this beautiful Earth!
• For a vehicle that holds my whole family at once and is reliable.
• That I know how to sew.
• That my Sisters are my friends!
• That my Brothers are good roll models for my family!
• That I own a hot tub.
• To have true friends.
• That I do not have to do all of my cooking over a fire.
• The list could go on and on!

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!!! God Bless!