Thanksgiving round 2

Round 2 thanksgiving was Friday through Sunday in Des Moines. My in laws are wonderful and have hosted the whole family for the second year in a row. Although the meal was delicious, the most precious time to me is watching my kids interact with their cousins. There aren't words that express how amazing it is to have this family all together under one roof. There are 9 cousins now and while they certainly don't always get along, I love that they are learning the value and importance of family. Would it be easier to stay home for thanksgiving (don't think that thought hasn't crossed my mind!)? Of course it would. But, our family is important. Spending this precious time WITH them is important. Getting to know them and renewing the connections that might have worn thin through the year is important to me (and I'm assuming John as well because he is a very willing participant).

What makes the whole thing evening enjoyable is I truly enjoy my in laws. The family I gained when I got married are in many ways different from my own family.

This newish thanksgiving tradition of splitting the time has really given us (me) time to enjoy and revel in the differences. I don't have to worry about being late or hurrying back to other family. I'm not worrying about people becoming irritated about us being late for a meal. I can just enjoy the time with each family.

This year for the first time, we added a Christmas ornament craft for the kids to work on. The kids all have a lot of fun playing, but sometimes it is good to have some organized activity within the chaos. I think the kids enjoyed it and it was fun to see what they came up with. Later on, my crafty sister in law pulled out her craft supplies (most kids were in bed) and we had a very enjoyable time being crafty. I might have liked that more than the food.