Tuesday 4: We Gather Together

Hey there ... g'evening!   

I'd grand plans to start the day with vim n' vigor ...  baking utensils were at the ready. 
At 3-something thing morning, however, my back reminded me I'd used up all my 'vigor' yesterday while doing a frantic house cleanse.  Selfishly, perhaps, I put myself on Injured Reserve.   

Several Aleve and Lidocaine patches later, I now feel ready to bring on the "most wonderful time of the year"!    Let's do this!

Birthday lady, Annie wants to know, "What are your Thanksgiving Days like?"

Do you celebrate with family, friends or by yourself?

This year there will be but 4 -- Tom and myself, Troy and Lois.  Grand-girl Chloe, Robert and Penelope are headed to Robert's dad and family in Mississippi.

I can't share details, but Robert's unit is about to deploy for several months.  While I totally support our Country's armed services, it hurts to know he might not be here not only for Chloe's birthday, but his baby girls' first birthday.

(Not he's the first, certainly not the last ... but still.)

🦃

Do you watch the Thanksgiving Day parade from Macy's in New York City?  The appearance of Santa at the end signals the start of the Christmas season.  What does the day hold for you?

Oh, how my mother loved a good parade!
Honestly, it was never a big deal for me -- but she's been heavy on my mind lately ...  I'm feel led to watch/listen.

🦃

What foods are the hit of Thanksgiving for you?

On our table this year?
Hickory-smoked brisket, corn casserole, mashed potatoes-and-gravy, crescent rolls  .....and a new-to-me "cheesy artichoke hearts casserole" (keto-friendly for Lois and myself).

Aside:

Long-time readers may remember, the Thanksgivings of my childhood weren't the norm.  Being thousands of miles away from family, the long weekend was an excuse to drive to Colorado ... a hotel in downtown Denver ... a dude ranch ... even a train ride to a newly-developed community called Breckenridge.  My father's only requisite: not being fond of turkey, he wanted to be able to order off the menu.

It wasn't Norman Rockwall, but it was good.  Carrying on an old family tradition!

🦃

We say grace before and after meals.  Is grace a part of your Thanksgiving meal?

Yes, absolutely ... thanks to Troy for reminding me what matters.

Whatever your Thanksgiving traditions, I pray that the day is meaningful and filled with love for you whether with family, friends or alone.  May God shine His blessing love down on you and yours and make us all truly thankful this year.