Thankful

I had lots to be thankful for yesterday.

Like the GM, hot tea, and two strong legs that allowed me to run  a Turkey Day 10K.

They weren’t messing around with that race course — it was a LOT of uphill but we made it in a solid 59:03.

I was thanful to spend the afternoon with Joey’s amazing family and to see Joey carve his first turkey.

Sadly this is the only picture I have from Thanksgiving Meal #1 because you know what?  I just wanted to enjoy the afternoon without having to pause for pictures.  It was so worth it.

Around 4:30 we headed over to Thanksgiving #2 at my parents’ place.

I kind of wanted to be basted like the turkey — I was SO cold from walking outside.

Even though I’m not a huge fan of turkey I have to admit that was one good looking bird!

While all this was in the oven…

An intense photo shoot was going on.

Then eating commenced.  I was more than ready for round 2.

This sweet potato casserole was AWESOME, REALLY.  I made it for both meals but I think it turned out better the second time because it had longer to bake and the crust hardened better.

BEST.STUFFING.EVER.  If you’re one of those stuffing dislikers you just haven’t had the right kind.  My mom uses my grandma’s recipe so it’s cajun and involves shrimp and chayote squash (which is a pain to find every year but SO worth it).  I dream about this stuffing all year.

Everyone digged the green bean casserole too and I was pretty proud of my ability to cook the beans to the perfect degree of soft/crunchy.

Had some of everything and deemed the sweet potato casserole and the stuffing the best dishes.

Wine and pie x2 also ended up in my stomach.

Afterwards me and the neph chilled out on the couch.

Whoa, either it was hot or someone had had a little too much wine.  I assure you it’s the former.

My nephew even learned to use our camera.

I think he has a future in photography.  But I’m pretty sure Joey does not have one in modeling. 

I sincerely hope you all had a happy and filling Thanksgiving and for any crazies out there, Happy Black Friday 😛