The holiday flurry has begun. We spent Thanksgiving at my mom and dad's house with a large, but not comprehensive selection of relatives. It is always good to gather with the family. My aunt and her husband and my niece and her family all made the trip from Oregon and we were delighted to have them with us. The food was plentiful and delicious as always. Mom and Dad made the turkey and the mashed potatoes. Aunt Holly made the stuffing and the rest of us filled in with a really tasty selection of salads, vegetables and desserts. We felt the absence of our Aunt Myrt, who died about two months ago. No one would sit in her chair.
My job was to provide the pies: two chocolate, one apple and one pumpkin. I made those ahead, so on the day I was free to play with flowers for the table. Usually arranging flowers happens amid many other chores and under pressure. This time I showed up with an armload of grocery store chrysanthemums and found that my sister had dropped off another similar bouquet, leaving me with an embarrassment of floral riches. I had the leisure to wander around my parent's yard with a pair of clippers looking for twigs and greenery to add. When my niece arrived I was reinforced by the help of her twin daughters. I wish it was always so much fun.
I never even take my camera to family gatherings anymore because my brother Tim and sister Lisa are such good photographers. Lisa took the family picture and Tim took the one of the pie. Thanks to both! I hope everyone had as pleasant a Thanksgiving as we did. We have so much for which to be grateful.