It’s That Time of Year Again…

…And that particular time of the year that I am referring to is the Thanksgiving holidays, which just happens to be my second favorite time of year.  It has always been a time of thoughtful reflection, reminiscing, heart felt family gatherings, preparing and eating those classic Thanksgiving traditions, and recollecting all of the things that you are thankful for.  A lot can happen in a year, and sometimes unexpected bereavements, cancelled plans, and other unwelcomed occurrences can get you down.  This rings true for me because this will be the first Thanksgiving that we will be celebrating without my grandfather, who transitioned peacefully and lovingly into the realm of my ancestors… and is now one of my most fierce spiritual protectors.  But despite the sadness and nostalgia, I am still exceedingly happy to be able to fellowship and feast with my family, reminisce the good times, and make some new memories to remember for a lifetime.

Despite our shortcomings, we are all still blessed and have so much to be thankful for.  I am thankful for good health, my ever-so-loving-husband, my family and their good health, my home, a decent career, decent transportation… and for the things that are not tangible, like the love and support of good friends, forgiveness, comfort, and Grace & Mercy from the Most High, just to name a few.

 

 

But what I am anticipating the most, this year, is the Thanksgiving FEAST that my husband and I am going to provide for my family!  Yes, the family will be gathering at our place this year and I am super excited!  All of the plans have been made and the food and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) have been purchased.  Mom and Grandmother will be helping here and there, but I plan to do the majority of the cooking, because this is my way of giving thanks and appreciating my family.  We will not be having that big of a spread this year, but it will be a very tasty one nonetheless.  The menu will consist of the following:

Oven roasted turkey

Honey baked ham

Cornbread Stuffing

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Green beans with potatoes

Collard Greens

White rice

Mashed sweet potatoes

Giblet gravy and cranberry sauce

Sour cream pound cake

Sweet Potato Pie

Southern Pecan Pie

I plan on putting mom on the macaroni and cheese, and my grandmother on the collard greens of course.  And just for shits and giggles, I am going to make my famous red sangria.  (I will share the recipe later)

 

Whether you are spending time with family, or volunteering your time by serving or delivering Thanksgiving meals to those who are less fortunate, remember to give thanks.  We all are on this journey together called Life, and the path may be straight or twisted, but along the way, let us remember, cherish, heal, and share your time with those who need you the most.  Now, I ask you, what are you thankful for?

May The Most High keep pouring out blessings on you not only this Thanksgiving, but for the rest of this journey.