We Give Thanks

I'm retreating from the kitchen for a moment...

Jeff and I arrived in Pensacola at 1 a.m. this morning. We unloaded what we needed from the Volvo and went straight to sleep. At six-thirty this morning Jeff woke me up (like a kid at Christmas, no less) all excited about frying the turkey. Mom was already up so we got to visit with her since she was fast asleep by the time we had gotten to the house. Lauren got up soon, too, and we all started planning the day. Lauren and I ran out for a few last-minute food items. Then, Mom and Jeff ran out for a few more last-minute food items. THEN, Mom and Lauren went out AGAIN for additional last-minute food items. Once we had everything needed for our feast Mom started her dishes (the standard fare: stuffing, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, etc...) and I started mine (straight off Martha Stewart: butternut squash puree, pecan pie, and maple glazed pound cake). Jeff just dropped the turkey into the fry pot about 10 minutes ago; the smell is amazing! My puree and pie look very good, indeed, and the cake is baking away in the oven. Mom's dishes are always perfect.

Despite the turmoil of the past year, Jeff and I are thankful for each other and for the fact that we are both safe. We are thankful that our families are making it through these hard times. And, as we sit down at Mom's table in a little while, we will thank God, too, for being lucky enough to have such a wonderful meal.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!