November went speeding by this year and much of it was spent planning for the Thanksgiving family get-together. We hadn't had one like this for ever so long and it started with just a family of five, including their college kids, wondering if they might join us for the day, our place being a central meeting place for all coming from 3 directions. We were delighted at that possibility.
And we continued to be delighted as the numbers grew. Another family wondered could they join the group. Sure, that added eight more. With thirteen empty sleeping spots available, not including couches we were set. Another family discovered their school district had given them an entire week's vacation for this holiday, they would love to spend it on the old home grounds. Why not?, we borrowed a neighbor's camper for extra beds. When this one's college kids arrived there were still couches or blow up mattresses to accommodate. Add six. Then another three were able to do just an overnighter, and beds were available in a relative's home for such a short duration. Add a cherry on top with one set of empty-nesters to come and go on Thanksgiving itself and we were set.
There was much help, much kindness, fun and sharing, no one had to carry too big a load. Most pitched in and there were a variety of activities, even a Turkey Bowl of football at our local ballpark the morning before the feast. It had been planned to take place on our family park, but the Canadian geese have used our pond as a resting spot on their way south so the area wasn't fit for much activity.
No one got hurt, the decibels were reasonable, there were plenty of activities other than hand-held devices and lots of conversations, not to mention the food.
Dining took place in a swept garage with tables set up for several days. It became a place of games and a spot to get away from the ongoing football games on TV.
Some enjoyed a Black Friday outing. A group went into our canyons and brought home Christmas trees. Christmas gifts were exchanged by some. One generous aunt brought some lovely clothes to share with any female who wanted to pack them home, and a fashion show was underway.
When all was wrapped up, the last car door closed and a few tears shed, it was time to reflect. Even most of the "after work" had been done by thoughtful family.
I was grateful for the modern washing machine and dryer for all those sheets and towels. Ten loads later I had remembered how it would have been to be doing all of that with my first washing machine, one of the old twin-tub wringer varieties of more than fifty years ago. Just imagining sending all those batches through a wringer and hauling the wet fabric out to pin on the clothes lines.
Yes, there are all sorts of reasons for gratitude.
