Gather...

 Thanksgiving is special to me. I love the preparation, from polishing the house from top to bottom to decorating with all my favorite autumn-themed things and making the place feel cozy. I love planning, list-making, and recipe searching. I love spending the day in the kitchen preparing the feast the day before Thanksgiving. This year, Rachel and I were the ones mixing and chopping with help from her wee ones. The Owlet helped whip up the delicious chocolate cake. 

 Aimee joined us after lunch and entertained the babes. When she arrived, the owlet squealed with joy. I felt the exact same way. Aimee did more than read a thousand books and play countless games; she helped me artfully arrange the food, flowers and table decor. It was delightful to see her work; she has a fantastic eye for beauty and detail. 

I was pleased with how all the food came out. Chris's smoked turkey was delightful, and my more traditional roasted bird tasted fine, too. 

There were fifteen people at the table. Our oldest guest was a feisty 90-year-old, and the youngest was 10 months old. We cooked many traditional favorites but also tried a few new things. I didn't hear any complaints, and nothing but crumbs were left on the plates as I washed them. 

Check out the homemade rolls on those baby thighs. I can attest that they were delicious. 

Rachel did a lot of the heavy lifting when it came to cooking. I was right in there hip to hip, but when I look back she did more than her share. Maybe after cooking this meal for 40 years I am slowing down a little? I'm not ready to throw in the dish towel yet, but I can see the time coming. It's good that I have someone to hand the ironstone platter to. 

Making Thanksgiving happen brings me back to my mother's kitchen. My grandmother would help wax furniture, shine silver, and polish brass candlesticks. My mother would create the feast.  For me it has always been a multi generational holiday. This year it was a special joy to be in the kitchen with my daughter and grands, knowing I was helping create traditions and memories for them.

When I smell the turkey roasting, the aromas of onions, garlic, sage, and so much more, I am transported through time, and every moment is delicious.