Thanksgiving in September!

When John and I started dating, he had the cutest little brother. At that time he was about 3 years old... and one of the sweetest baby boys that you'd ever meet. Since John's Mom was essentially a single mother, we ended up taking care of Joey quite a bit. I could tell that child anything, and he believed me. (Trust me, I only told him well documented facts!)

After 20 years, I have come to know this little boy as my little brother.

My little brother has decided to join the Army recently. He is about to leave for Basic Training, and to make sure we send him off with his heart full of love, we gathered our family to have a Thanksgiving Feast.

We gathered both sides of the family, and stuffed them into our little house. I spent a couple of days cooking and preparing our feast. It was fabulous- the food, the day, and especially the company.

The boys always enjoy company, but they really love when Grandpap comes to wrestle with them!

My sister in law, who is always first in line to help me with any project, brought her famous pumpkin muffins. She baked them in the hot August heat, and that spells love, don't ya think?After our bellies were filled, we went outside to snap some pictures.
It was so much fun to have my house full of laughter and love. Joey's Aunt Toni came all the way from Oakland... and she brought her famous mac & cheese and collard greens. Both of which were devoured! Joey's sister, Olivia, was able to find the place. It was quite the culture shock to find out that people really do live that far from civilization... lol.

I love that Missy's Mom, Nancy came. She and her husband always hosts my family for the real Thanksgiving... and it was nice to feed her for a change! :)

This is the whole bunch of us, minus Martha. Mmm hmmm... that's my new name... and I'm okay with that. Wish I had her money!

So Joey, when your missing home... I want you to think back to this crazy group that showed up one night to let you know how proud we are of you. We love you, and are always here for you... and thank you for keeping our country the best place in the world to live.


I love you, and can't wait to see you succeed... and trust me.. I know you will.