Sunny River Writings

Thanksgiving has just passed and I have come to realize that this holiday is a gift I received from my Father. When so many things around us change from when we were a child it is comforting to find those things that have remained just as they have always been.

My father’s favorite holiday was Thanksgiving. He believed it was the one day of the year to make a conscious effort to be thankful. We celebrated with family and good food. Daddy was most thankful for his family. He expected everyone home on that day. Thankfully we all lived close enough to be able to get together. We would gather around the dining room table that was filled with our traditional meal. I don’t think it ever changed.

The turkey which Daddy had carved, the mashed potatoes and gravy, and candied sweet potatoes were there in Mom’s ‘good’ dishes. You know the ones. Grandma’s bowl now with a chip in it which is saved for special occasions because that is when Grandma used it. There was a relish tray and stuffing, both moist and dry. A green bean casserole and dinner rolls completed the meal. The crispy marshmallows on top of the sweet potatoes were one of my favorites.

In the afternoon there were the football games and board games or cards for the non-football enthusiasts. All done while eating pumpkin pie or pecan pie or whatever dessert was set out. For Daddy

Thanksgiving was the one day of the year to just relax, enjoy family, and to be thankful.

Today it is much the same – a day to reflect and be thankful. There is not as much food. We all seem to be more weight conscious these days. There are not as many people around the table since my children span the country from California to New York. But the important part is still the same. Being thankful for family.

Thankful that my husband and I have made it another year with our health, our home, and each other. Thankful that the children and grandchildren are healthy and happy. Thankful for my children; their laughter, their support, and their just being there throughout the year. Appreciation for friends, both the old and the new. And grateful for all the little things. My Fridays with my youngest grandchild, babysitting my furry grandchildren (two dogs and a cat), playing canasta and great conversation, rides through the mountains to photograph a waterfall, and sharing a football game even though we are 800 miles apart, thanks to the TV and texting.

Thanksgiving for me is a gift that I cherish. Thank you Daddy for showing me the importance and the beauty of this magnificent holiday.