counting our blessings

We spent a few days in Knoxville to celebrate a "Tennessee Thanksgiving" together as an extended family. There's an old song about a Tennesee Christmas, but I think late fall is just the season to sing about a Tennessee Thanksgiving. The rich colors are so gorgeous against the backdrop of rolling hills and horse farms. What a blessing to have both sets of grandparents together under one roof to spend our day of thanks together. Miller and Eliza Kate sure did absorb all the extra hugs and attention. Lots of eating too. Good eating! Papa and Omi  know how to entertain a crowd.

Sweet thing enjoyed turkey, sweet potatoes and brussell sprouts. To my surprise, she gobbled up every last one. She's at the stage where she approves of almost anything. Miller... well we're working on growing and stretching his tastes. He thrives on the familiar. Miller tried to enjoy the meal..talking himself into each painful bite. It's just a stage, right? He did love drinking out of Landon's pewter milk goblet. Miller felt very kingly as Landon presented it to him with a bow:) He has no idea how entertaining his dad is.

A table full of family is a sweet blessing. And, we're counting our blessings! Notice Miller's mouth full of food. That's a painful smile btw.

After dinner, we headed outside to walk some of the turkey and trimmings off in the cool Knoxville air. Miller followed the backyard rocky path in Omi and Papa's backyard, running in circles to get some energy out. He was thrilled when a group of wild turkeys came to greet us over the fence. How appropriate on turkey day! They sure are lucky birds to still be alive and not on the table being served on this day.

Omi and Papa's backyard and view of the Smoky Mountains in the distance is so peaceful. We love the wide open spaces when we come to visit. It truly is a get away!

What's a day of counting our blessings without family photo ops?  Poor children. They have to stop playing to snap some memories.

I must add that Miller is becoming the picture champ. After years of action shots, he's learning how to pose and get it over with. Just when he got it down, we have another wiggly worm to stage;)

Thanking God for our two healthy children, Landon's new position, two sets of grandparents, loyal friends, our home, the opportunity to serve others.... the list goes on and on!
Taking time to reflect on these gifts is just what this Thanksgiving was all about.
1 Chronicles 16:34 O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting.