Happy Thanksgiving!

Did you have a good holiday?

Ours had its missteps here and there, like any family gathering.  But for the most part, it was a lovely day.
A 20lb  fresh, organic turkey baked with garden herbs and olive oil went into the oven early and I got to hang out and play with the kids. I thawed corn that we froze this summer, baked bread and pies the day before, made mashed potatoes early and plopped them into a crock pot to stay warm, and I was FREE.

Setting the table is part of the fun, so I don't count that as any of the work of getting ready.  Plus, I did it pretty simply, like the rest of the day, a few pretties in the center of the table and moving some furniture around to set up a second table, and it was done.

Ten of us went to see a matinee of Wreck it Ralph, which made me cry. That was a cute movie, and so much more than I expected. I don't care for video games, so didn't really want to go, but promised little Finn that I'd take him.  I'm glad I did. 

Afterwards, we played outside and in the studio. Perfect weather and perfect company.  Who cared that we were doing this a day early? Everyone had the day off on Wednesday, and the date itself didn't matter to any of us.

All who came brought side dishes, that only needed warming up once they arrived. That was a delight!  Every time I took a lid off a pan to see what was inside it was like a mini surprise party, and each one made me so happy. I love pitch in dinners, its so much tastier to try everyone else's favorites.

And I didn't spend all day in the kitchen.

This year, we tried to start a new tradition.  Usually, I coerce everyone to say what they are thankful for before we eat. This year, I decided to do a "blessing tree", so diners could write their thankful thoughts onto a paper leaf and add it to the tree.

That way, those who didn't feel like speaking up could still contemplate their blessings and think about the reason for the day, beyond just snarfing turkey.

Sugarwings, Finn and I went out on the Fairy Berry Trail to gather up some leaves to use as templates.

I put all the kids to work producing enough leaves for the whole group.

Each person got a leaf and a glitter pen to write on it.

I made the mistake of using a base that was too light weight for the tree and it toppled a few times, but no harm, even when it dove into a candle. 

If this is going to be a tradition, next year, I'll get a better pot for the tree.  Maybe even bring in a living potted tree...

This is Sugarwing's leaf. (before the glitter got so thick you couldn't read it). I think it says it all, don't you?

 

Comments

[Karen Young]

Happy Thanksgiving. What a lovely idea with the leaves.

Hugs Karen

[Hannah]

What a lovely idea with the blessing tree. You home is decorated so beautifully. Glad you had a wonderful holiday with your family! Great memories to treasure.

[Beth Leintz]

Wow- Leelee did a great job writing on her leaf. She's really getting those letters down!

[Tami Hacker]

Yep, the love of family (and friends) just about says it all!

[Sheila R]

Sounds like you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Love the idea of a blessing tree.

[jeanie]

Belated TG to you -- it all looks lovely. I do love blessing trees -- everyone wins when you think of all the thanks! Speaking of which, thankful to have this wonderful spot to visit!