Happy Thanksgiving (also known as "Spend All Day Cooking and Then Fifteen Minutes Talking About Gratitude Day")! Last night, as I steeled myself for the herculean culinary task in my very near future, Anna hugged me and said, "I sorry you have to cook all day, but I'm grateful that you do it." Aww, thanks Anna. :)
Actually, I have a lot to be grateful for too, including the fact that multiple family members helped me with the cooking marathon this year. Joy cut potatoes, Anna stirred the gravy, and Daddy sliced the turkey.
Speaking of turkey, I like to cook a turkey breast in the slow cooker because then we don't have a mountain of leftovers, the bird doesn't dry out, and that method leaves the oven free for other dishes. Unfortunately, I almost never find a turkey breast that completely fits in my slow cooker, so I have to weigh the lid down. I knew that exercise equipment would come in handy eventually!
While the turkey was cooking, Anna and I hopped in the car and took flowers to some friends. It was easily one of my favorite parts of the day, and I think I'll do it again next year.
Each friend we visited talked with us for at least half an hour. Whether people live alone or with a busy family, they all seem eager to chat with any friend or acquaintance who shows up on our porch because socializing is such a rare treat these days. I feel the same way--I love my family, and I love that we've grown even closer this year, but the pandemic has also shown me how much I need regular contact with friends too.
Back at home, we finished the last couple dishes and set the table, then I quickly snapped this picture before sitting down to pray and feast with my (im)patient family. Our table wasn't nearly as pretty as some of the spreads I saw in photos my relatives shared today, but it's hard to imagine a more delicious meal. We enjoyed turkey and gravy, garlic roasted potatoes, pear kale salad, sweet potato casserole, and cran grape juice (except for Anna, who requested OJ).
Oh yeah, and we had pumpkin cookies for dessert (in a very practical, un-fancy serving container). Why bother with pie when pumpkin cookies are so easy and so yummy? They're the perfect way to wrap up a heartwarming yet exhausting holiday.
As my Grandma Sorenson would say, Thanksgiving is gone, and it didn't take long!
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