EVER THANKFUL!!

I’m thankful to be able to host this wonderful holiday feast that brings us together. Its been a long few years and I know you've missed this togetherness as much as I did. I’m so thankful that you made it, considering the price of gas and the horrendous traffic. I hardly noticed that you're two hours late; I'm just happy you made it here at all!

I'll start by giving thanks for this home-cooked meal! Especially this turkey —- it looks a little crusty, but that's not just because it’s been sitting out for (did I mention?) two hours; it's because it's Tofurkey, which was the only way I could bring vegan peace to our holiday table. I endeavored to find a humane turkey raised in a stress-free environment, but my kids were right, I could not. Also, it's easier for Great Aunt Hilda to chew! If she was awake, she would agree with me.

I’m thankful for my children! You guys are everything to me! Tofurkey aside, you are my stars, and make me better. Like that time that Fluffy had the UTI and had to be walked every half hour, and no one, not one of you, ever offered to walk him, even though you knew my sciatica was acting up and it was icy out? I’m so thankful I recovered from the fall. It was months of grueling physical therapy learning to walk again -- but I've never been stronger! I'm so thankful that you took turns uber-Xing me to my appointments. And for understanding that accidents happen! We all miss Fluffy; loss is hard. But the paramedics said it was quick. Thankful!

I’m thankful for my friends. Remember that time we went to see Leopoldstadt but we thought it was a DiCaprio retrospective? That was hysterical. The tickets did seem expensive!

I’m so thankful for my hubby! Babe, you are really the best. SO appreciative of those high-tech-noise-reduction headphones you bought me for my birthday! (Turns out they aren't that easy to sleep in...). I’m so thankful that Dr. Marko was able to see us so quickly, and that after our third session, we understood that we just have different expectations for gift-giving — you want a more thoughtful gift, and I want a more expensive one. And, truly, what greater gift is there than a better understanding of one another?

And, lastly, mom, so, so thankful for you. You taught me everything I know! I, too, question the pallor of the turkey lying before us— especially since I followed your recipe, but Tofurkey can be tricky. It was so considerate of you to bring an extra, just in case I screwed it up. I am so thankful that you are always looking out for me.

Now, who’s hungry? Let’s eat! (We have two turkeys, after all...)

Happy Thanksgiving!