Fat & Sore

Yet again I've followed the wicked tradition of stuffing myself beyond belief. There wasn't a lot of slave labor in the kitchen because we spread out the responsibilities between my brothers and sisters. The food was delightful, and it didn't even look like we made a dent by the time we were all moaning. Of course no one can complain about Thanksgiving left-overs. And if you were wondering...my first turkey turned out nice and juicy!

Amazing spread

It was SO fun to have my brothers and sisters in town (except Abbie, but she's coming soon!)And fortunately this year we got to get out and exercise our bodies by rock climbing...we spent a day in St. George at Black Rocks and then a day in Cedar City at Pocket Rocks. I couldn't believe how weak I am...and now how sore I am! George and I need to get our own gear so we can go more often than just when my brothers are in town.

Awepia - pro climber

Georgie-porgie puddin and pie climbin'

Seesters!

Happy Thanksgiving

A couple hours ago I just put my "first" turkey in the oven. Although I'm not a vegetarian I think meat is gross to prepare. But at least it was simple to prepare...and now we wait for hours to find out if I did any good.

So back in 2002 I started a personal gratitude journal. In it I write down my many blessings and the things I'm thankful for. Today I thought it would be appropriate to include an entry on my blog.

I'm so thankful for my husband George...he is such an incredible man. I love the way his mind works, it's enlightening to be in his company. It's wonderful to be married to him and very exciting to start our own family. He works hard and is a lot of fun to live with (not to mention he picks up after himself, makes the bed, and does the dishes). Family is such a wonderful blessing and I'm thankful for my parents that have always been a solid example for all things good and right. Brothers and sisters are the best! I enjoy spending time with them and I always learn something new in their company. I'm forever grateful for the gospel that fills my heart with joy and which provides the only sure foundation we have in this life. Friends are like family and I feel so blessed to have so many wonderful friends in my life. I LOVE dark chocolate, although today we are trying pumpkin cardamom cream truffles which should be delightful. Which brings me to another point...I enjoy trying new things, expanding my perspective, and learning about new opportunities. Fresh starched sheets, new socks, and jeans out of the dryer are wonderful! I am thankful for fun bosses that take care of both my husband and me. To wrap up today's entry I'm thankful for this Earth...especially for the mountains, trees, and fresh air I get to breathe each day.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!

P.S. I just got an email forward that sends postcards to servicemen...it only takes a minute.

Elder & Sister Lewis

My parents came for a visit in Cedar City a few days before they had to report for their mission. We had a wonderful time full of walks, food, and grandkids. Last Saturday we hiked up to Red Cliffs...and guess what we saw? A real-live turantula in the wild! Kyson was absolutely estatic, his dream come true, haha. It was huge AND hairy...unfortunately my mom is the only one that got pix. My parents entered the MTC (missionary training center) on Monday, November 10th. After an intense week of training I was able to meet up with them Friday evening for dinner. They were so excited and ready to head to West Virginia. They are now in Spencer, West Virginia getting settled. I'm so excited for them, I know they will make wonderful missionaries.

Impressive...not too much stuff for 18 months away.

The classic missionary photo...aren't they a good-looking couple?!

Eliza said yes!

And she was such a gorgeous bride! Eliza is one of the most loving people I know. Jason sure knows how to choose 'em! It was a wonderful weekend. Our mission president was her sealer which made it even more special. And of course classic Eliza, they had ice cream and tons of candy at her reception. It was so fun to enjoy this happy day with her and get to see old friends from the mission.

The happy couple - Jason & Eliza

It was a "moter" weekend. Moter or motra is how they say "sister" in Albanian. I met Eliza and Elaine when we served together in Albania.

Congrats Mr. & Mrs. Ruys!

I Voted

I voted, and I hope you did too. It's not only our privilege, but our obligation.


Quote of the day by Rev. William J. H. Boetcker:

• "You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
• You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
• You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
• You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down.
• You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred.
• You cannot build character and courage by taking away Men's initiative and independence.
• You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should, do for themselves.
• You cannot establish sound security on borrowed money,
• You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than your income."
  

God Bless the U.S.A.