Ah, November. The month when you finally get around to carving jack-o'-lanterns and name them thankful lanterns or some such nonsense. We also celebrated my Grandma Audrey's 86th birthday - a really great celebration since she had a close call last month. We voted, wrapped up cheerleading season with a medals and cookies, hit the Harrisburg Fall Festival, and roasted marshmallows at the annual church homeschool group soup night. Because I hate wasting food, I roasted, pureed, and froze 14 pumpkins that couldn't find a home and am now sneaking pumpkin into every dish I prepare.
On a more meaningful note, the kids and I had the opportunity to take a tour at the Operation Christmas child packing facility in Charlotte. I left with an understanding that the huge number of boxes we send from America are only a tiny drop in what would be needed to reach the children in India alone. Our family was also thankful to travel to Ohio for Thanksgiving to play backyard football, eat with family, and reflect on how blessed we are. The highlight of the weekend was the Bruckmann grandchildren's talent show. From youngest to oldest, they each impressed us with their growing skills! We continued the tradition of a family reenactment of the Thanksgiving story and even headed downtown for the Christmas tree lighting.
Happy Thanksgiving and a joyous holiday season to come to all!
For more November photos, click here.