Traditions

One of Websters definition for tradition : "the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instructions." America has the tradition of celebrating a day of giving thanks on the fourth Thursday of November. It is actually a legal holiday. Each family takes it from there and establishes their own customs for this particular day. As a child and youth I do not recollect many memories of this day. I do hope I told my mother thank you for a delicious meal. She was a great cook and we had delicious meals on a regular basis. My father worked to provide the food on the table and I am certain I did not tell him thanks! In their later years they enjoyed going to Wendover for Thanksgiving. They went with my Uncle Kenny and Aunt Margaret, her brother and sis in law. I never could wrap my brain around that way of celebrating the holiday. Wasn't Thanksgiving all about being surrounded with family ( aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents), feasting on food (way too much of it!) and great entertainment (visiting together in loud voices, playing games, and ESPN)? Looking at it that way I guess they were surrounded with family (brother, sister, family of mankind, and no one under the age of 21)! They had all the buffet food their little tummies could hold (hey, what about the leftovers). And, yes they were thoroughly entertained (the one arm bandit , poker, etc.) That Thanksgiving tradition just does not appeal to me. I am actually looking forward to utter chaos and absolute exhaustion. I will lose control of the remote. My house will be horribly messy (beds unmade, dirty dishes laying around, toys scattered hither, tither and yon, and cupboards opened and emptied (do you get the vision?). I will be surrounded by those I love, ages 1 to 56. How thankful I am for all of that! Better get busy with some cleaning ( I am the crazy type who likes it clean the first five minutes of arrival) and cooking (I am the crazy type who makes my own pies and rolls. One year I even made an Aunt June Fickle Pickle Pie ,only Lisa enjoyed it!) Today I will try a new recipe for white chocolate pie along with the good ole regulars. Whatever your Thanksgiving tradition may you enjoy the company of loved ones, full tummies, and an attitude of gratitude for all our many blessings! I know I will be counting mine and believe me when I say...there are too many to count!