We had our annual feast, 3 turkeys, one a regular "Butterball" with stuffing and two were a newcomer. Beth and Mark smoked two birds which were delicious. Then throw in a couple large hams, and all the various side dishes. Mashed potatoes, gravy, mac and cheese, green bean casserole, corn, a huge platter of califlower, broccoli, and brussel sprouts smothered in cheese sauce. Add some home made rolls, real butter, (I know I am forgetting items!) sweet potatoe casserole, ........ then bring along a bunch of pies, homemade of course, apple, pumpkin, cheesecakes, pumpkin cheesecakes, new and totally awesome apple crisp pie, pumpkin cookies and various other items!!
Every year our "clan" grows, this year I think may have been a record - we had 30 bodies for the initial dinner. But as kids grow up, their "friends" come with them, our numbers swell! I have to say tho, there were only three who were not family.
What a thrill for me to watch this happen over the years. As all those grandkids were coming and going yesterday, I thought back to the time when it was our kids only, running through the house, our numbers were so few compared to todays numbers!
Now comes the time for the leftovers, in the long weekend following, family comes and family goes, playing games, eating leftovers and sharing love.
Thanksgiving is probably our second favorite holiday, with the first being the Fourth of July! Christmas falls a close third but because of time constraints, the hustle and bustle of the season, and the chances of winter storms, I think Christmas is only appreciated for it's gifts, the reason we celebrate it and one more reason for a "big" meal!
Another year, more wonderful memories with such a large and loving family. May we all take these times to heart and treasure them, and know how special and rare they are.
Until next time.
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