Thanksgiving 2014

It's been a couple of years, but we were back to hosting Thanksgiving at our house again this for both sides of the family.

I really enjoy it and it's great that everyone can spend the day together instead of splitting time.

Plus, it gives me a chance to pull out all my pretties and use them!!

This Turkey Day, Shelby was a bit more aware of what was going down.

I couldn't resist another Pinterest favorite for breakfast and made turkeys out of cinnamon rolls and bacon.

 It just seemed fun and festive, and perfect to watch the Macy's Parade!

We had everyone over around 12pm and we farmed most of the meal out except the turkey, mashed potatoes and a pie.

 Brad fried the turkey.

He's done it once before with the help of his Dad, but this year he used his own turkey fryer that hasn't come out of the box in over a year.

It was delicious!

Of course, I'm more into making everything look pretty and festive.

With the help of my Mom, I think it turned out great.

 We hosted 13 in all(one being Shelby), so our large 12 person table was perfect to fit everyone.

For the first time this year, we opted to let everyone serve themselves and come back to the table.

Just seems easier and less clean up and I think it's the way we'll continue to do it from now on.

 Leaves more room on the table too, which means, more room for decor!

 Mimosas were a must!

 As were appetizers.

I made the pumpkin cheeseball again and it was every bit good as the first time I made it.

 Mom made the stuffing, which is always devoured.

Brad was still eating on it last night!

 The kids enjoyed themselves and all the goodies grandparents brought.

 Including the annual advent calendars.

 The one addition to our holiday this year was that my cousin Alayna and Sean moved here just a couple days before and were able to join us!!

So happy they now live in Charlotte even though it's still hard for me to believe it!

Exciting!

 One big happy family!

I laughed when I saw this picture.

 Not sure what that face is all about except, what the heck is all of this!

 After dinner shenanigans set in and Brad decided to 'bridge' with our niece Paige.

Umm.. 

Might be time for him to retire doing this since his wrist has been hurting since.

The day ended with a short walk then movies in our basement.

We were all pretty beat but there was no time to rest because the next day the race was on to get the Christmas decorations up.

A post on that tomorrow!!