Thanksgiving Weekend

It's the day after Thanksgiving and I am tired but happy to have had a wonderful holiday with my family.  It's always fun to go back and remember the moments just before everyone walks in the door.  We're lighting the candles, adjusting the table, putting on music, and of course checking the turkey. The actual event is always a whirlwind of visiting, cooking, eating, laughing, telling stories and reminiscing, and of course cleaning up.

The dining room table ready for dinner, with a view of the living room where we set up a second table 

This year was very special because my sister and my brother were able to attend.  They came with their children and we had about 10 cousins altogether.  My mother loves to be surrounded by her grandchildren and as I watched her beaming face throughout the night, I knew that this is why we continue these holiday rituals year after year.  I read something a long time ago about the comfort of our holiday traditions and that making a home for the holidays is an act of hope.  This concept felt very true to me this year.  

The living room table became a cozy little arrangement for the cousins

This was the first year that I set up a second table, and as I looked at it last night I knew that we had come up with the perfect solution for having a big crowd for Thanksgiving dinner.  We moved a few pieces of furniture out of the living room and created a cozy dining space.

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I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you are sitting with your feet up today and reflecting on a holiday filled with good food, quality time with your family, and great memories.  I am looking forward to one of my favorite weekends.  Hopefully we will see a good movie, start some Christmas shopping, and enjoy some of the Thanksgiving leftovers!