Thanksgiving-2014...

I have much to be thankful for this year. 

*Meghan graduated from Snow College with her Associates and is now in the teaching program at UVU. She continues to study hard and work hard, as well. I love being able to talk "the education talk" with her. She has lots of great ideas and enthusiasm for what she is doing. I have no doubt she will be a great teacher. I am so proud of the woman she is becoming.
*Jordan not only chose to serve a mission, but was and continues to be excited about the prospect of teaching the gospel to the people of Mexico. He sent me a letter last week as he was preparing to go and sounded a bit nervous. "Well, Mom, I'm excited!! I can't wait to go!! I am also going to miss the MTC! I'm scared of the transition! Well, I'm gonna have to do it either way!" I love his matter-of-fact attitude. Just like him... Tomorrow, I hope to hear where he is serving in Mexico, who his companion is, etc.
*Kyle has become the "priesthood leader" in the home. I couldn't be more proud of the efforts he is making in his life to be an example to his younger siblings.  When Jordan left, Jacob asked, "So, who's gonna be the good one now?" Kaylie quickly declined. Kyle has stepped up to the plate and is trying to fill those shoes of his older brother. Kyle continues to put up with my rules, ramblings, and regulations, the best that a teenager boy can. 
I love him!
*Kaylie has become my counselor, clothes/makeup adviser, and friend. She loves life and it is contagious! After a tough year last year, she continues to smile and make me smile. I love talking to her! Of all my children, Kaylie loves to talk. And, I love to listen. She finds joy and happiness in the simplest things. I love to hear about her day at school, her new favorite song, her irritating science teacher, or her funny math teacher. I have missed her this Thanksgiving break and can't wait for her return.
*Jacob continues to be my "baby" boy, though there are few indications left that imply such (like the occasional hair-fetish thing). I have tried to be thankful for his last year at Westside Elementary. Unfortunately, it is going by way too quickly. It makes my heart sad to think that none of my children will be with me next year. He has grown up quickly. His friends will come and talk to me in my classroom but he kind of lags behind. Chatting with mom at school is just too much for a 6th grader. He more than makes up for it at home, though. He loves life and plays hard. He just finished volleyball (all girls league-minus his team) and will soon be starting up basketball.

Our Thanksgiving festivities took place at the Backus' home. We were few in number but made the most of it with LOTS of food, sleeping, Hallmark movies, pool, and conversation.

Happy Thanksgiving!