What a great day of thanksgiving! Surrounded by family and friends, all coming together to laugh and catch up on all that is going on in life. Here, Leah is teaching Kaylee a little attitude - cute attitude that is! Leah has been spending as much time as she can with Emily since her relapse - it has been tough on both of them. [Leah's sister, Emily, is in Pittsburgh Children's Hospital now undergoing more treatment for leukemia - please keep them in your prayers]

Adam and I grabbed Santa while he was on break and away from the children for a photo. He wanted to get back in his red garb, but we assured him that times have changed and everybody is wearing t-shirts these days! Really, how many people wear suits when they are relaxing and just hangin' out? Right?

Don and Kim came in from Kansas as they have been doing for many years and, in fact, had the meal started for us. When we got there, we all dove into the kitchen work to prepare the feast. Of course, Don and I had to have our political discussion first. Don't worry though, we are on the same page so there was no bloodshed! [grin]

In case you didn't realize it, I am not a believer in the statement, "Never talk about two things - religion or politics!" Quite the contrary - we need to talk about those things because it is through the interaction of differing perspectives that we grow to a deeper understanding of each other! It seems that the most important thing to remember is that you won't ever agree on all points, and that is okay. But definitely talk about them, we desperately need those discussions in our society!

After we finished cleaning up (a job we all chipped in to do - many hands make light work!), I gathered all the ladies together and made them smile [not that it was a difficult task at all - we smiled and laughed a lot throughout the day (and even shed a few tears)].

After this photo, Leah, Kim and Don left for Pittsburgh to see Emily. Adam, Dawn and I went to my parents house for the rest of the afternoon/evening and let Mom and Dad Naylor recuperate from the days activities - Mom was totally spent! But both of them surely enjoy the company.

God is great and takes all circumstances in the lives of those who trust Him and use them for good. All of the trials and struggles, the joys and blessings, tragedies and sorrow, laughter and tears - all of them He will use for good in our lives if we can only trust in Him. May he richly bless you this season!