Because we’ve moved around quite a bit, we tend to celebrate our holidays without the luxury extended family. I really miss that sense of community. I close my eyes and imagine guests lingering beyond the meal, reminiscing over past holidays, perhaps a little gossip here or there, and lavishing the hostess with compliments about the turkey. {sigh}
But that doesn’t stop me from making a big turkey and our favorite side dishes. I put on my favorite Pottery Barn Compilation CD, pour a glass of wine, light some candles and treat my family to a wonderful dinner.
It may not make sense to spend so much time in the kitchen cooking, then witness our little family of four be done eating in about 15 minutes. But it’s still special, and we end up with more leftovers!
Actually, we do have one Thanksgiving tradition…we watch the movie “Home for the Holiday’s” with Holly Hunter and Robert Downey Jr. That says it all! 
1. My family lives on the opposite coast so we don’t get to have Thanksgiving together very often.
Earlier in the day, we serve Thanksgiving Dinner at the homeless shelter. They do a big shindig in the city park and anyone can eat, no questions asked. Nothing makes me more thankful than being of service.
My husband and I (no kids) usually invite friends & neighbors to join us for Thanksgiving dinner. Even if we’re not having guests, we always cook our favorites. We love the leftovers!
by Michelle — 11/4/09 at 4:28 pm #
2. Hi Michelle,
I love the idea of serving at a homeless shelter! That would also be a great way for kids to learn the concept of thankfulness.
Have a great t-day this year!
Susan
by Susan — 11/5/09 at 11:05 am #
3. Thanksgiving is all about celebrating with whomever you have… no matter how big or small! And I think making a big deal out of even a 15-minute meal on Thanksgiving is so worthwhile… you never know when a special memory will be made.
Btw - love your idea of even little place/menu cards for a small gathering… the perfect touch.
by Kara — 11/5/09 at 12:34 pm #
4. You mentioned you listen to your Pottery Barn Compilation CD. Where did you find it? Thank You.
by Margo — 11/5/09 at 2:57 pm #
5. My husband and I of 48 years usually have our 4 children and their families to our house for Thanksgiving. My grandchildren love the homemade noodles with the turkey. We have 2 turkies to give to other families that have a need. Early in the evening the grandchildren decorate the Christmas tree and this is a special memory for us and the children. Every year we place school pictures in a Christmas oranament and they get to hang their own.
by Sandra — 11/16/09 at 11:43 am #
6. Hi Sandra,
Wow, you have really done a great job creating a fabulous and memorable experience for your family! I especially love the idea of using their school pictures on ornaments…very creative! Thanks for sharing…
Susan
by Susan — 11/17/09 at 4:52 pm #