Thanksgiving in Texas

We spent the week of Thanksgiving with my parents in Texas. Although the boys have visited them in their newer home a number of times, this was the first time Coral and India had been there. I feel a bit starved for experiences that give my children a sense of family in a larger context. They are all very good at forming long distance relationships with grandparents, my siblings, and their cousins, but I am grateful we had this chance to enjoy each other's company and to make memories all together. Of course, everyone we would have wanted to see was not able to come, and those who were not with us were missed.
A neighbor stops by with her horse.

India bonds with the horse and the neighbor.

Niall learns to ride the RipStik that my parents gave him for his birthday. He was thrilled and mastered it quickly.

My children were so excited to see Alison's twins. We have missed them since they stayed with us and we all had an emotional and wonderful time seeing them again.
Niall and Joseph

Leith and Nadine

Grandma takes her dog, Miguel, on an early morning walk with the help of Logan, Rose, Niall, and Leith. Casey was just trying to get in on the photo, not the walk.

The children try to encourage the teens to greet the day. The teens reacted with hostility.

Grandpa chats with Coral and India.

Babies on the porch taking in the sun and, unfortunately, tasting bark, bugs, etc.

Coral fixes the little girls hair.

Kevin reads to Rose and the boys in their pantry/bedroom.

Coral with Joseph

India and Nadine

Now in reverse....

Joseph eats mashed potatoes before Thanksgiving dinner is actually served.

The children play horseshoes with Dale and his father and brother while waiting for the feast.

India sets the tables for @30 people.

The food was really amazing with the exception of the pumpkin pies-separate tragedies made both pies a bit healthier, and less tasty than expected.

Polly helps India crank out some Pre Calculus.
Our attempt at a family snapshot before the light completely fades....