Today’s journey was one for feeling and expressing gratitude and spending time with family as we gathered to celebrate Thanksgiving. Greg, Elissa, Josh, Nate Pugh, Sara Adcock and I met at Adriel’s house for a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings.
This year was so fun. Daughters Elissa and Adriel prepared most of the meal. I was there to answer questions and step in during the last 15 minutes when so many crucial tasks are performed all at once, but the girls did most of the work. We had fun laughing and talking in the kitchen while the guys set up an extra table and fetched necessary items.
We shared a very delicious meal, with all of our favorite foods. The men graciously ate together in the living room while the ladies dined nearby at the larger table. There was no sense of being rushed or needing to be anywhere else. We could enjoy our meal and the moment, fully.
After our leisurely meal, full and contented, we all gathered in the living room and played games. We enjoyed the card game Uno first and then the more challenging game, Set. As we competed in a good natured way, Christmas movies played on the TV. In fact, Christmas movies were the backdrop for the entire day and included Christmas with the Kranks, Christmas Vacation, Elf, and A Miracle on 34th Street. The day concluded with slices of Dutch apple pie and pecan pie, with scoops of vanilla ice cream, and a variety of cupcakes that Sara made.
I am so blessed with a beautiful family and wonderful friends. All my children and grandchildren live nearby, so I have the privilege of seeing them often. All my extended family lives in Joplin or within an hour and a half of the city. We celebrate often and share meals, laughter and life. Gratitude overflows my heart today, and every day. And love surrounds all.
