{day twenty three} turning mishaps into memories...

What happens when you arrive just in time for the inaugural Turkey Bowl with the Westmeade Baptist Church youth group?

Or when you get to spend some time with your friend from Ohio?

What happens when you wake up on Thanksgiving morning and realize you need a propane tank?

Or when you get back with the propane tank and realize you need a lighter for the turkey fryer?

Or how about when the turkey fryer breaks and you have to go get a new one?

What do you do when the oven won't hold the desired temperature? And the apple peeler breaks? And the much-anticipated homemade apple pie spills over in the oven?

What happens when a friend coaches a rookie on how to prep the turkey?

Or when an unnamed toddler who is scared of the puppies whines nonstop? And her mama's hair stands on-end from all the whining?

Or when that same toddler takes a tumble head-over-feet down the stairs? And that same mama screams at the top of her lungs, causing everyone in the house to spring to their feet, even the puppies?

What happens?

Mishaps are turned into memories.

Memories that last a lifetime.

There were plenty of mishaps and hiccups this Thanksgiving. But the laughs were enough to fill a hungry soul.

My family celebrated the best Thanksgiving ever with our best friends in Alabama. We can now call Decatur home.

I still remember our first Thanksgiving celebrated together four years ago. There was a newborn baby girl who served as yummy dessert. This year there was a deliciously baby boy to munch on. There was plenty of sugar to go around.

Memories, when made with those you love most, have a way of leaving a lasting imprint on your heart.

I am grateful for new memories to look upon with fondness. So when my heart fills empty from the distance that separates, I can turn to these fresh memories with a smile.

And there will always be the video {which I was completely unaware of} of my first turkey bath. It's sure to bring a few laughs to a heavy heart.

Until next time Decatur. Until next time.

'Never forget the days I spent with you. Continue to be my friend, as you will always find me yours.'
Ludwig Van Beethoven