Sunday, November 27, 2011

oh gracious day

There isn't one thing that comes to mind that I would change about our lives right now. We are so blessed. It is a gracious day, such as this one, that we remind ourselves to be grateful for all we have: family and true friends, good food and full tummys, love, health, peace...
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Our Thanksgiving day began just as many others. Chato headed off with running buddies to a Turkey Trot. Brandan decided not to notch this one on his belt and stayed home with Aly and I to prepare for the meal (but truly have a front row seat near the television to watch the Macy's parade!)
The day also celebrated Chato's 37th birthday. Just before dinner, Lissette posted this 20 year old picture of her and her oldest brother on FB - (he & I have been together her whole life, and I remember him just like this!) Aren't they adorable?
Pinterest provided the bulk of ideas for our decor and feast. Let's start with Tom the turkey...
...he was an interesting conversation piece in the center of the table! Then there was the Indian corn placeholders Brandan, Aly, and I made for the table...
Pumpkin dip has been a staple on our table for the past few Thanksgiving holidays...
While we fixed and prepared, sliced and diced, cooked and whipped...all the non-helpers found cozy spots to make themselves comfortable...
I made up this easy peasy cherry limeade...
...alongside some black cherry ginger ale punch...
The good deal i found on blackberries at the market, morphed themselves into blackberry cupcakes for dessert...
Our turkey was wonderful.
There is a secret though?...I followed a good friend's suggestion from last year. She told me that if you place an onion inside, the turkey will stay moist and tender. Oh, man was she right! LOVE LOVE LOVE how it turned out.
Leo is our family carver...
Chato enjoyed birthday presents after the meal...
...that he shared...
...with everyone EXCEPT his on duty brother!
We were just thrilled that Marco got to stop by and eat with us!!

By the end of the night, Lissette and I broke the wishbone...
...and the wish? Well, let's just say I made one to have another blessed year ahead.

1 comment:

Pam said...

What a wonderful looking day! I love all of your pinterest inspired treats and crafts too!

Those blackberry cupcakes sound yummy. I noticed the blackberries are on sale at my grocery store, hmmmm.....