The Paiva Family: Giving Thanks

This year was our first year not to have Thanksgiving at our Granny's house, as she has recently moved into a retirement center. With traditions changing this year, it was extra special to have the continued tradition of a Chattanooga Thanksgiving with my mom's side of the family. It all started with us all meeting up at Brad and Deb's house from eight different cities for a carbo-loading dinner to prepare for the big race the next day!

Then, at 9am Thanksgiving morning, for the 4th year in a row, we all ran, walked, or, in my case, waddled, the Sports Barn Turkey Trot -- all in our matching, homemade hats! People had so many comments on our group and the way the walkers cheered for the runners - especially our first-year runner, (as denoted by the tan hat), Savannah. At 5 miles with some good hills, it isn't an easy race, but it's still a lot of fun, and a great way to start the day -- before eating all of the wonderful food Aunt Deb had made for Thanksgiving lunch! The turkey, three kinds of dressing, Brussels sprouts, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and rolls were fantastic -- and I think my favorite part was the pumpkin torte!

We finished the day with all the ladies working on stockings for the new additions to our family. With two engagements and a baby on the way, we have lots of growth and lots to celebrate! And, I suspect a similar sewing circle will be needed in most of the years to come! What a wonderful 24 hours in Tennessee celebrating all that is most important to us.