Feast at the lake

We got to go to the Wises' lake house on Table Rock yesterday to celebrate an early Thanksgiving with our Drury friends. We all met around 1:00 (without kids), loaded the fridge and oven with all the goodies we brought, then headed out on the pontoon for a cruise.


We hadn't gotten to see our BFFs, Adrian and Stephanie Rhoads, in a month or so. Steph is training for a marathon and had on the jacket she earned a few weeks ago doing a 13.1 mile trail race near Branson.

Gina Wise, the hostess with the mostest, and our California transplant, Ray Turner.

Ray's wife, Yvonne, and Jen Swan, my suitemate my freshman year, from one of my all-time favorite places, Eureka Springs.

Wes Wise, our host and pontoon pilot, fills 'er up.

Jen and Chris Swan

Back at the house, Wes made a fire and we sat outside and laughed and listened to the lake while we waited for dinner to cook. Their house is really big, with plenty of room for lots of overnight guests, and we've had a great time each time we've gotten to stay there.

Everyone brought great food, but I'd have to give the MVP award to Yvonne, who made the turkey, infused with rosemary and thyme, as well as a cranberry dressing that has converted Ryan forever, and the very best stuffing I've ever tasted.

We played Apples to Apples and several hours of Band Hero, laughing and talking about the old days and what everyone's families are up to now. We're lucky to have old friends who knew us both pre-parenthood and now. I'm thankful for that.