For thanksgiving this year, we took a long overdue trip back to Utah to visit family. The road trip there, was definitely interesting. After getting delayed a couple of hours due to snow and traffic coming over the passes, we thought maybe getting off the interstate might yield some time saving results. That decision led us in smack into the middle of a massive sheep herding operation. This historic drive occurs annually right along the highway, there were thousands of sheep, and we just had to drive right through them, and they were in no hurry to move out of the way. It was hilarious when Ada asked a little nervously, "Sheep not eat me, right?" Eventually we did make it through and were finally on our way.
On long road trips I always enjoyed napping in the car. Sam, however, was the only one to nod off the entire trip though, and only for about 30 min.
Our first stop was Papa and Nana's new place in Midway. It's a beautiful home, and we were able to get in some much needed quiet family time before the next several days of craziness. Some recent snow covering the mountains was especially picturesque. We made sure to take advantage of all the amenities including a clubhouse with, foosball, arcade games, pool, and basketball. There was also an indoor swimming pool Ada and Dennison and I went swimming in as well. Sam was recovering from a stomach bug and Mike was working on a plumbing emergency.
Eventually Eve, Abby and Eve's friend met up with us to spend a little time together, mostly spent goofing around and rough housing.
Then we packed up the car (we were so squished with every seat taken, as well as all of our stuff and all of the girls luggage) and headed down the canyon for a whirlwind of visits with extended family. I think we got out and back in at least seven different times, which is a huge endeavor when there is no room and you need to get kids in and out of car seats.
First stop, Grandma and Grandpa Bingham, where we had some of famous clam chowder and sneaked into the thanksgiving pie a day early.
Then we headed over to see Aunt Mary, Simon made sure he got lots of attentions. After Mary's we made a quick stop at grandpa Baxter's.
Then we were off to meet up with Abby for dinner at our favorite ol' hamburger joint B & D's to enjoy a pastrami burger with pumpkin pie shakes. Then we went to Abby's place for a visit. It's always interesting to see how creative you can get to entertain kids in places that don't ever host children. Abby was pretty successful keeping them entertained with her medical supplies and tools.
After one last stop at the grocery store (the night before thanksgiving nonetheless) we eventually made it to Bountiful to spend time with Mike's family. First on the agenda, Kickball! We had a lot of fun playing with everyone thanksgiving morning before we stuffed ourselves full of turkey. Below are just some pictures of everyone enjoying the day together.
Ada made sure to round up a following of admirers.
Dennison was super enthusiastic about Theo teaching him how to play chess at Aunt Mary's, so he enlisted his cousins to challenge him.
Just lounging around.
The next day everyone met up for some ice skating. Dennison did really well. This picture cracks me up, because he put his hands on his hips making it very clear he did not need the little stand to skate. It was so nice the the kids jumped right back in with their cousins to have fun.
Nana wanted a picture of all 18 grandchildren ages 3 mo.-14 yrs. It was pretty entertaining to watch.
The last day we squished in one last adventure before we hit the road, and took a nice little hike up by the Rahden's to enjoy so cool autumn air and let the kids run round before sitting in the car all day.
And we can't forget the early birthday gifts from Nana and Papa for Samuel.
It felt like we packed in so much in just a few days, but it was well worth it to spend time with family. Happy Thanksgiving!
