(We did make a Thanksgiving turkey in FHE after a lesson on the pilgrims. Adam represented our pilgrims while Andrew took care of the Indian representation.)

The next day my sister, Julie, and her family visited from Washington. Boy, were our kids in heaven! Adam, especially, loved playing with his cousins Sam and Nathan (see picture above). Jon cleared out the closet under the basement stairs for the kids’ not-so-secret hideout. They had a blast!

Natalie and Jared (both 8) have really improved their relationship since they were two, biting and screaming at each other. They’re fast friends now, thank goodness!

Julie and my little Tyler

Amy, Rachel and Natalie got along really well

The weather was great, and the kids spent plenty of time outside. With thirteen kids in the house, that was a lifesaver! The bigger boys also played ping pong, and the younger kids just ate up the slide that Jon added to the basement stairway.

The grown-ups enjoyed several games: Marbles, Canasta, Revenge Rummy, and even some iPhone-Nerts!

Little Sarah meeting baby Tyler

Sarah celebrated her 2nd birthday on Friday!

I’m so glad they were able to visit. Julie and Matt have such a great family! They left a wonderful feeling in our home, and I already miss the great talking time we had as well as the game time! I wish my family wasn’t so spread out all over the country (WA, CA, UT, OH, GA)!