We had a really great Thanksgiving. There was lots of food, family and friends, and lots of cousins hanging out and having fun. It took 2 rooms to fit everyone for dinner, but it all worked out in the end. Most of the morning, and evening was spent stratigizing the shopping on "Black Friday". Everyone started arriving around 2 pm, and soon the feeding frenzy was in full bore, devouring 2 turkeys, and spiral ham and all the trimmings.

We also celebrated Logan's 8th Birthday later that night. He got to open presents in front of a large audience, and made multiple wishes over trick candles that kept relighting after he blew them out. Sadly, it took him at least three times before he realized that something wasn't right with the candles.

Today was a shopping madhouse!! After getting up at a little after 3 am. We got to Walmart shortly after 4 am. Jen assigned me to a gift for Logan that Walmart only had 9 items and about 12 people wanting them. I guess being my size does have it's advantages. Nobody was willing to fight me for my box. (Just kidding.) It was extremely crowded though and after I retrieved the said item, I attempted to make my way toward the front of the store where Jen was waiting with the rest of the stuff. The lanes were more crowded than an LA freeway. Most of the time spent in the store was just trying to get out again. After Walmart, Jen and her sister and sister in law went to Target, then to a couple other stores. I went to Big 5 and Cabelas with 2 brothers in law. After spending about over 2 hours in Cabelas waiting in line we were finally liberated, and made our way home for some relaxation. It was a crazy, but fun day, and I have gained greater respect for my wife who has braved the hysteria for several years now.