Thanksgiving 2008: New Jersey!

So, when you walk in my parent's home - My Home New Jersey - you know, immediately, what Season it is.

Given Amanda's love for animals, it was a "1st Priority" to try to feed the deer that spend time in my folk's backyard.

It didn't take long to realize that they preferred chopped pumpkin. (Fortunately for Amanda, Mom had 14 pumpkins displayed around the house, ready for chopping.)

Now, as common as the deer wandering through their yard is, it is very unusual to find any Buck. To find 6 Buck, at one time! - as we did - was crazy! This video was one of the more entertaining "fight" scenes we observed.

Nephew, Colin, was doing his best to get a good view.

Colin was only one of the highlights of time spent with our nephews. Aiden & I spent some serious quality time together. The least of which, was a race car game I invented that gave us time, together. (Surprisingly, he won!)

Next, I gave Aiden my camera to play with - and, I gotta tell ya...he captured some good shots.

The Turkey:

"Pops":

Aunt Amanda:

A Self-Portrait:

His Uncle Kevin & Aunt Amanda:

Then, I took over, because it was time to carve the Turkey.

As expected, Dad did a fine job.

Before I sat down...at what's become "my seat"...I had to take a picture...

That's, "Thanksgiving."

Then, there's my boy, my nephew, behaving just like his Uncle.

But, then there's Mr. Colin. Snugglin' up to his Aunt Amanda. (You could not tear him away.)

However, the next night...Mr. Colin really started to mess with Aunt Amanda.

He found the "ZERBERT!!!"

But, you really get the fun of it, when you catch this video:

Now, given all the fun trying to feed the deer...let's not underestimate Amanda's ability to be the "Deer Whisperer."

It didn't take long. She did it. My Dad did it - several years ago, with apple slices. But, Amanda, seriously, persevered. She stood out in the cold to gain their trust. Next thing you know...they're snacking on pumpkin, straight from her hand.

As great as that was, I get a big kick out of being a part of the "norm" in Sparta, NJ.

Included in that, is Mom's attention to the Boys, on a regular basis.

It's a Happy Thanksgiving, 2008.