I Am Grateful

I love Thanksgiving. It's a non-denominational, non-sectarian, non-race-specific, unifying holiday for all Americans. I love the food, the cooking, the anticipation & planning, the tradition, the warmth, the spirit, the chance to reflect on our blessings, and of course the long weekend.

I had a few friends over for dinner this year. I cooked a turkey for the first time (thanks to Holly for all the instructions that resulted in a moist and delicious bird!), made mashed potatoes and stuffing, cooked up some asparagus, and--the best part--I made a couple of pumpkin pies. Mmmmm! Michelle and Rachel rounded out the meal with rolls, roasted cauliflower, and some sort of cool Brussels-sprouts-with-bacon combo. All kinds of yummy!!

We shared our bounty with Jenny and her mom in the hospital (where Jenny is being treated for leukemia and is making tremendous progress). They were so tickled to get a homemade Thanksgiving dinner, it was delightful to watch them eat it!

The table and guests

Close-ups of the bountiful spread

I have so much to be grateful for this year (as I do every year). At the top of the list are: excellent heath and safety for self and family; stable & steady employment; a cozy home; beautiful surroundings inside and out; gorgeous, mild weather this Fall; wonderful friends who genuinely care about me and my life; a supportive and kind family; my testimony of the Savior and His Gospel; living very close to my sister and her kids who jump up and down with excitement whenever they see me; the means to take a vacation now and then and to be able to help those I love from time to time (and buy them presents); a car that runs just fine; good music; a body that works in every way and enables me to do what I need to do; full use of my faculties; uplifting books; a Democrat in the White House; Thanksgiving leftovers (especially pumpkin pie!); hot running water; indoor plumbing; electricity; the Internet; a new, efficient heating system; plenty of fresh food to eat every day; and the new Harry Potter movie, which I saw for the second time today.

I hope your Thanksgiving was just as warm, cozy, and wonderful as mine was!