Thanksgiving

Our Thanksgiving was extra special this year. 

For nearly a decade Mel and her family have not been able to be home for Thanksgiving. 

So, this was our first Thanksgiving all together in EIGHT years! 

and we took advantage of our time together the only way we know how-

 eating, farming, and just being together. 

To the Barn!

The Trick Rider:

My Dad was showing me his slick moves on Thanksgiving Eve. I love his expression, one he has often that, of pure joy and happiness not to be outweighed by mischief. And, I was so very impressed by his skills and maybe even a little jealous of his fearlessness on this creature...

Family

Just the three of us

- by one of my favorite things- hay...

The Grands. 

I don't think we have one photo of all of the kids- in nearly 8 years- 

where everyone is happy, smiling normally, looking at the camera, 

not mad, not sad, not pouting, with open eyes, and looking in the general direction of the camera. 

But, if we actually had that shot it wouldn't be the same. 

This is real life. These are real kids, 

who love each other, their grandparents, and the farm with all they've got-

 and that means its gonna be messy- even in photos.

This is probably repetitive, but I always leave the farm so refreshed, 

as though I have been on a relaxing weekend getaway. 

This trip was no different. The weather was beautiful, the views breathtaking,

 the farm life fanciful, and the memories so very lasting. 

Our family is blessed beyond measure 

and there is no better place to realize this...

Annual Grands and Greats with Grandma: