MY FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!
This Thanksgiving was the best I can ever remember. All of my siblings and their kids were able to get together for 3-4 days. It was a houseful for my parents but SO MUCH fun and memorable! So here is to my family whom I love so much.
Mom and Dad,

Thanks for your examples and life you have lead so far. When ever I have a problem or a hard time raising my kids I am grateful to have wonderful parents to look to as an example of what I can do with my own kids. The older I get the more I realize how much you have done for us and how much more I have to learn. Your focus on family and the love I felt so strongly growing up is something I hope to achieve in my own home.
The Nielsons,

Thanks for always having a listening ear and warm heart. I always feel like I can talk to you about anything with no reserve and still be loved. Even when I say things the wrong way. You have always been there for Tim and I from the beginning, even with our super fast engagement/marriage. You are always so good at helping me see the whole picture or look at things a different way, with out being hurtful. You have a beautiful family on the inside and out with such GOOD kids. I am just glad Tim and I can follow your example while my kids can follow your kids examples. :)
The Hills,
I don't get to see you or talk to you as much as I would like, but I always know you are there and would do anything for any one of us. You guys are always so honest and kind. You are so easy to please and so willing to help with anything or everything. Your class and righteous living is something to be admired by all of us. Your kids are so precious and are blessed to have you guys as parents.
The Parks,

I know you don't always like to hear this but you guys are SO FUN! I wish we lived closer to you so that we could play games into the late night, make crafts as sisters while Tim and Brandon do their thing, I am not sure what that is because I am always having so much fun with Cami that I don't even know what else is going on. All I know is that Tim has TONS of fun with Brandon too. We have fun as families, couples and as individuals. You can't beat that. My favorite Ping-Pong game during our tournament was against Brandon. I can't help but sit back and enjoy myself with you guys.
Leslie,

You have been given a lot to handle in this life and you handle it VERY well. People do not always understand you or your situation, even those closest to you, but that doesn't stop you from being extremely kind to everyone around you especially strangers. You are so smart and can remember things that are unbelievable. You have really grown up and I feel so happy that you are able to be out in the world and handle it well. Sometimes when Tim and I talk about you I get this overwhelming feeling of love and appreciation for you. Thanks for always being able to make us laugh and realize what is truly important.
Erin (soon to be Higleys),

I can not believe that my baby sister is graduated from high school, engaged and determined to be all grown up. :) You have such a positive outlook to life that I wish we could all have a little bit of, even when the hardships of life and responsibilities of being adults come our way. Your hopes and dreams for the future are something I remember having as strong and hope that I do not lose throughout my life, even when people may say we are too naive. There is nothing wrong with finding happiness in everything, yet still be responsible and realistic. I think a lot of people do not think those two things go together. Just don't forget that they can. I think the key to that trait is gratitude. Thanks for always being so easy going, and easy to please.
Thanks again to EVERYONE for making this Thanksgiving and Christmas Party week so great. It is a time that I will never forget. The preparations of food, eating the food, cleaning up, ping-pong tournament, talent show, family pictures, games and more just about wore me out but sure was fun! Thanks for all you contributed to make it so memorable. Thanks to Cami and Brandon for taking these great family pictures for us. I know everyone appreciates them. Happy Holidays Everyone, I hope your season is filled with gratitude, love, family and/or friends.