a thankful feast

Number One: I am thankful for little faces that grow into big helpers. This year, for the first time, I had plenty of helpful help!! Now, in the past there was no lack of assisting hands, but rather this year my helpers were able to help without assistance!!! I am so proud of Aly and Brandan for taking charge of setting the table and providing such great ambience! Brandan took it upon himself to (not handwrite, like last year's version) type a full menu of the evening's finest cuisine!! He listed everything from the pumpkin pie dip appetizer to the beverages and desserts offered! Aly, crafty when needed, took some clip art turkeys and turned them into napkin rings. Both set the table with my grandmother's dishes and aligned cute, little place cards for each guest!
Of course, they had to get there hands into the food end, too. Brandan helped pull out the sweet potato pulp, add a touch of ginger, cinnamon, and pecans. Aly added the final touches alongside him; what are sweet potatoes without marshmallows on top? Just before sticking them in for the "twiced-baked" effect: Mmmmmm!
All food prepared and the turkey just out of the oven, the kids gathered at "their" table for a toast: Thankful for friendship!

Number Two: I am not fond of being the "carver", but each year it seems the knife ends up in my hands while everyone else is right at my side ready to snatch that first bite!!

Chico took the first true bite:

...but not before the kiddies reminded him to be thankful!

By night's end, stuffed to the gills - including the German Chocolate cake, pistachio flan, and a pecan pie - the BIG BOYS broke the wishbone...

Chico must have made just the right wish!

Chato's sorrow will only last until next year...

Poor guy!

Belated Thanksgiving wishes to all!