Birthday, souffles and other great stuff

I have been trying to write this blog for over a week and can't quite get it together enough to finish - or even get more than a sentence written at one time. The fact is, that I've missed several great opportunities to blog. My birthday for one - waaaaay back in October. Dave and the kids spoiled me with breakfast in bed and a present "scavenger" hunt. They had written clues that I had to follow to find my presents hidden around the house. Kuddos to Dave for pulling off such a great day.....which, by the way, ended and was complete with a huge slice of delicious cheese cake.

Another "must" mention - Thanksgiving. The holiday would not be the same without the Hornaks. They continued the tradition and made our first Thanksgiving in Ohio a success, by driving on the most traveled day of the year just to be with us. Dave delighted all of our taste buds with turkey and all the trimmings. And when I say "trimmings" I mean pumpkin pie, pie, and more pie. We have no problem eating it for breakfast....lunch....dinner and of course dessert! This year however, the typically untouched sweet potato souffle was a new "fan" favorite, as it was discovered by Robert and Cade. This delicious dish made it's debut years ago and Dave has faithfully been making it ever since. However, this was the first year it actually graced the lips and passed the test of their....shall I say....picky palates. Next year....double batch!

We did all the "normal" Powell/Hornak traditions.....like staying up late, eating too much, and playing lots of games...our new favorite - Bananagrams! Good thing none of us are competitive (wink wink). The guys continued their bromance and enjoyed their annual "Black Friday" date at the Apple store and Best Buy. But my absolute, to die for, go to the ends of the world and back favorite tradition has to be.....having my hair played with endlessly by Margaret. It truly is a little bit of heaven here on earth.

Places everyone....

The "semi" cool pose!?!

I'm grateful for many things....and I really should give thanks more often - and not just this time of year - for all of my blessings....simple and great. But this time of year....when I'm missing my family....I'm especially thankful for these people.....and I'm reminded that they are my family...right here and right now.