It was exactly what I needed, what I think we all needed- family time, traditions, time away from work, and soaking in what life on Newark-Granville provides. I like to chronicle our life for history's sake, I'll print the year's posts and maybe my family will enjoy it one day. Just as we loved looking at a photo album created by family members for Fannie/ Grandma-Great's birthday. So here was our 2022 Thanksgiving:
It really started with Matthew's visit from Saturday to Monday- he thanked me saying he needed the change of scenery and time together. I thanked him for giving me one-on-one time. We talked, reflected, and made plans and memories. We soaked in Granville and Columbus- so much good here.
Peter arrived home on Sunday- we're always grateful when Gretel makes the trip. On Wednesday Sally was off and with the DU pool closed had more time to be home. I love the day to take the back roads to pick up the fresh turkey and other provisions, adding in some of my favorites along the way. Clare arrived in time for the one family-of-five dinner. The kids chose spicy noodles, from Joe's repertoire. The evening launched with proper cocktails that included Shelborne Farm cheddar cheese. We ventured to Amanda and Brian's for a nightcap in front of the fire- long overdue!
Thursday's big day was a good one. I woke early to make stuffing and prep the turkey. The schedule set by me this year was no rush, lots of savor. We walked to town for the Turkey Trot- thank you St. Luke's for this important philanthropic and community activity! I walked, enjoying the sites, conversations, and hugs, stopping to pull the turkey out for the get to room temp step. The annual neighbor get-together to cheer passers-by and catch up over a beive and homemade scone was heaven! It really is a perfect morning.
The afternoon allowed me to relish in meal prep, setting the table, and taking in being home with a full house! I watched the recorded parade and dog show. Joe's brother Scott and Ann arrived with their three kids, we're so fortunate to count them as friends and a rich tradition of holiday time. They rounded out the meal with contributed items so everyone would be pleased with the meal. Our menu:
Turkey (15 lb fresh and home made brine) with stuffing inside and separate (made with Granville Bread ciabatta)
Gravy
Cranberry Chutney- Colleen Pitt's recipe or as close to it as I can find
Mashed Potatoes
Sauerkraut
Scalloped Oysters
Peas
Green Bean Casserole (Ann)
A green salad- kale and squash (Cate)
Macaroni and Cheese (Caroline)
Cruiditare and Fruit Kabobs (creative offering as turkey from pumpkin)
Apple Crostini (Ann)
Pumpkin Pie (Cosco)
Chocolates- Goumas and Trader Joe
We hang out well, dinner was ready 4:30 ish, Ann offered a lovely prayer and we enjoyed the meal at the "new" bigger table. It was my great great grandmothers and my mom was right- it does look great in our dining room. We played games- kids before dinner-, mixed group, after. Joe broke a goblet and we are a competitive group so some voices were raised or not the most bucolic of tones maintained but it was all wonderful. Ann and I value our family times and I'm grateful for her partnership and how the kids and brothers embrace it.
The night ended with family movie night, an anticipated Disney film, not as good as I'd hoped but still an enjoyable wrap to a special day.
Friday we headed west to see Nadine and Jim's new place with the kids and then USA World Cup Soccer/Football game with Joe's extended family, a meal for 44- uniting cousins and aunts/uncles for the first time in 10 years- long overdue. We opted to spend the night at the lovely Sauder Inn and enjoyed sipping and sharing for hours.
Saturday - home for OSU/Michigan tame- Peter downstairs and us in the living room. I am happy when my son is happy. Joe takes the - he is happy when OSU fans are happy. We enjoyed turkey sandwiches with Utz chips. Dinner out with Hannah (Clare's dear friend from Wooster) before sending them back to Wooster. The slow reversing of family time. Another Movie- this one met expectations and a good night's sleep.
Sunday time to wrap up Thanksgiving and embrace the transition to the Christmas/December season, the Grater's peppermint stick ice cream helps! Peter left early leaving me a bit blue, but church and turkey noodle soup address the melancholy. The afternoon was for school time in my office, also a queit prep time for what will be a robust end to 2023.
Life on Newark-Granville Road- I'm filled with gratitude and grateful for a weekend that is all about family, friends, good food, traditions, and being together. I know how lucky and fortunate I am.
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