Thanksgiving in Utah

We set off to spend the holiday with Jason's parents in Utah. As we drove up Flagstaff, I got out of the car for gas and caught the first chill that ran through every bone. How did I live in the cold for 20 years? I can handle cold, it's the wind with it that sends my teeth chattering and my body in convulsions. I was so happy I spent the money at Cabella's for wool socks. For the most part, it was beautiful there. The kids had a ball playing outside in the snow. And as a mother, it's like I had forgotten all and had the worst possible shoes and gloves for them. Luckily, Aunt Monique pulled out the Colorado gloves, which was night and day to the sock like material the kids were wearing.

Jason's sister Monique came with her family which made it feel like we were kidless. I think our kids may have come around five times...when they were hungry. The cousins always have a blast and are instantly best friends. We, as adults, had the best time. Mo is my shopping companion. Two words, Tai Pan. Need I say more? We took the truck specifically to fit all the extra cargo for the ride home. Before Friday, we went scouting for all the sale items. I talked to sales associates to find out where the placements would be. Over time, I've learned it's more about out-smarting than it is just being there on time. I must clarify one thing: Utah Mormon women are crazy. I always hit the Black Friday sales wherever I am. Never has it been as wild, ferocious, and like an episode from 'Cops' than in Utah. I've never seen security have to take people down, until Utah...AKA Zion. I've been pushed around in the past, so I drug Jason out in the wee hours as my personal body guard and point man. Hate to say it...he was worthless (in a shopping way). Not to say he didn't protect me, I was just always a good 15 feet ahead of him and he was so pokey about getting where I needed him to be. Where's the hustle? He said I was just weaving in and out too fast. Seriously? If we had been talking Hi-Def T.V...it would've been a different story. I'm sure it was all part of a calculated plan to exclude himself next year. OR he was upset with me because my Father ratted me out and told him of my prior Black Friday experience of telling Jason a white lie of being out buying something needed at Walgreens when I was really buying something I wanted at Macy's. Either way Jason: 'Your Fired' in my best Donald Trump impersonation.

On Friday, we were able to attend the lighting of Temple Square. The Salt Lake Temple is still one of the most beautiful temples to me. When I first saw a picture of it while taking the discussions, I knew how important it was and I longed to be there. Everytime I'm there, it feels right and I am thankful to be a part of something celestial.

The Tan Fam

The Berglund Crew

Love all the different nativities, especially Asian.

Cousins

SPARE TIME ACTIVITIES INCLUDED:

Going for hikes out by Grandpa and Grandma's.

Getting chased by Deer. Yes, I said deer. They are like the Utah women.

Finding hidden waterfalls.

Backrubs (Child Labor)

...more backrubs.

Conspiracy Thanksgiving Themed Table

Monique and I thought we should change things up on Mom's table centerpieces to see how long it would take others to notice our controversal inter-racial couple in lieu of seeing New Moon. "Me like Women like my turkey...White."

'Darkshadow' standing in the distance...plotting the beheading.

I missed the pilgrim man who was on the other side turned around in disgust.

There is something to be said about conversation pieces on your table.

We love small towns!! They give such good material.

Mother and I have several rounds of Scrabble. Unfortunately, she didn't win once..dirty words don't pay. And she is the queen of using dirty words in Scrabble.

I have the best in-laws in the world. They have always been so good to me and treat me as their own. I owe so much to them, especially for giving me the perfect companion.

My life is full of many blessings.

My cup runneth' over.