Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. What's not to love? Cool temperatures, family, a delicious meal, and an opportunity to thank our Creator for our many blessings. Those who know me, know I LOVE to cook a big meal and have those I love gathered around the table. There is a lot of preparation involved but I love every part of it. First I come up with our menu, then I shop for all my ingredients, then I set myself a cooking timetable for the day. This year I hosted Marty's family. With Jack ready to start chemo and radiation on Monday, I wanted to take the stress off the rest of the family to host. I wanted to archive for my kids a little about our day.

I like to light my pumpkin spice candles and have them burning all day. I have my recipe book on my cookbook holder and have my ingredients assembled nearby. I have my cooking timetable on my recipe binder so that I can see it easily. I made placecards for each family member. In each placecard was a message about specifically what we were thankful for with regard to each person. For example, Marty's said, "We are thankful for the way you put your family before yourself." I think everyone enjoyed reading something special about themselves. The kids were really into it. They wanted to know what was on everyone's cards. I always use my Grandmother Jean's turkey platter. I received this platter after she passed away and it is very special to me. Emma helped me set the table. Both she and Reese helped a little with the cooking. Marty always makes the mashed potatoes. He makes awesome mashed potatoes. My mother-in-law brought ham and stuffing. My sister-in-law brought pumpkin pie and rolls. I made the turkey, sweet potatoes, cranberry salad, fancy green beans, apple-ginger crostatta, deviled eggs, 7 layer salad, and broccoli casserole. Marty's family who is in the restaurant business are hard food critics but it seemed that all the dishes received rave reviews. We asked the Lord for healing upon our family, particularly Jack with his cancer. We blessed the food and thanked the Lord for all His blessings. It was a great Thanksgiving.