Friday, November 27, 2009

Thanks the Morning After

What an amazing day!

~ late Wednesday night, still in the kitchen, I started to wonder why we do all this and before that thought could even clear my brain, I realized: a tradition of giving thanks, going all the way back to 1621. All over this country women and some men had spent Wednesday in the kitchen. The line of amazing women in whose tradition I stand cooked and gathered family around them, and my daughters and I continue to do the same.

~ Thanksgiving Day itself saw Michelle and me in the kitchen at 5:15 AM, putting a Huge turkey in the oven. Back to sleep for a little while and then Son offered to run to the deli for donuts even as the aroma of turkey began to fill the house.

~ Friends from next door arrived bringing their contribution to the feast.

~ We ate at 1 - took a nice gentle hike - home for pie (three different kinds!) - and then games: 42, Texas Hold 'Em, and then a rousing game of Mafia in which all ages participated, laughed, clapped and were delighted in being together.

~ it was an international Thanksgiving with our newest family member from China for whom Marc prepared a lovely spicy fish. We enjoyed sharing the traditions and reasons why we were gathered and eating so much. :)

~ We are a blessed family. Grandchildren play together in joy. Neighbors enjoy being with us. Everyone pitches in to help ~ and answers Mama Susan's "I need help" quickly and without grumbling too much. :)

~ On Facebook a friend mentioned she had to work. She's a nurse. For all of you who were there for others, bless you. To all of us: blessings, gratitude and a deep understanding of why we do this every year ~

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