THANKFUL

I couldn't let Christmas come without first posting about Thanksgiving. This year we held Thanksgiving at Jolea's house. The food was absolutely amazing and the tablescape Jolea did up was worth the planning because it really was a beautiful dinner. We were disappointed that Mom couldn't make it, but we sure were glad that we were able to get Eli down here for 4 days. Jim's family and Carrie's family came as well as the newlyweds, Kelsey and Justin. We had lots of fun visiting, watching movies, playing games, shopping, and watching all the kids play and wrestle. Max loved having the cousins down and he especially took to Addie (Carrie's little girl) and Rowdy, Jolea's dog. In fact, he now goes around calling "R-o-w-d-y" out loud, hoping a dog will appear. I'm not so sure Rowdy is as fond of Max, who tries to ride him like a horse and holds onto his back hair to keep him from escaping. This Thanksgiving I was reminded of Elder Bednar's last conference talk about prayer. In closing, he issues a challenge that on occasion we issue a prayer only of Thanksgiving, asking for nothing. He promises blessings will follow. With all the blessings I have in my life, I think it only appropriate that I offer a prayer of strictly gratitude this season.