Our family has so many things to be thankful for as we look back at 2008. We are thankful for our family and friends who continue to be a tremendous support to us. We are greatful for our faith, the power of prayer, miracles, amazing children, employment, and the basic comforts of life. We are thankful for our Savior Jesus Christ, without whom this season of hope would not be possible. 
After we got the tree up and the house all decorated for Christmas (Thanksgiving weekend), I took the girls to Gardner Village to see the elves that are hidden all over the place. We enjoyed window shopping at the fun shops, getting our free fudge sample, and seeing all the lights and great decorations. The weather was perfect, not too cold. It got us even more excited for Christmas.
We kicked off the Christmas Season a few weeks ago at our Ward party. We had a yummy breakfast with Santa, who Taryn calls "Ho Ho". The girls were excited to see Mr and Mrs Claus and get treats, of course! It was lots of fun!
For Thanksgiving 2008 we hosted the Welling family at our home since my parents are on a mission. Megan, Ryan, Gavin, and their families, 19 in all, joined us for lots of food and fun. We had all the traditional favorites (of course we missed mom's pies) but with less stress and work since we served the meal buffet style on paper plates. The kids had a great time playing all day with their cousins. Bright and early the next morning we participated in the black Friday fun and scored some great deals at Walmart, had free breakfast at Sam's and were back in bed at home before the sun came up. It was great having everyone here!
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