Thanksgiving was truly a wonderful holiday filled with plenty of good food, many of our family members and many blessing to be thankful for. Our day began early and the 20 lb turkey was in the oven by 6:30 a.m. The day began with a flurry of activities in the kitchen.
Doug was the first to arrive, followed by Todd. They both came early to help while their wives and children stayed at the other grandmother's helping her begin the preparations for the evening meal. Ours was to be a noon meal. The boys began by bringing our storage of prepared food from the lower level kitchen to the upper one. They were also the master carvers of the turkey and presented us with a tray fit for the finest chef. My tables were set for the expected 17. Within minutes, more family arrived and we were surprised to see our grandaughter, Rebekah and boyfriend Adam along with grandson Daniel. We did not think they would come since they usually go to the other grandparents for the noon meal. I quickly arranged the table to accomodate three more!
Around 11:30, the house began to fill as the rest of the family arrived. The girls all carried casseroles and more trays of food to add to the table while I held all the little children at bay as they entered the door. I was immediately surrounded by five little boys, ages ranging from 5 to 12, and two grandaughters ages 12 and 14. I explained to all that since they were school children, a purple mask must be worn to protect their grandaddy. They all complied and even seemed to enjoy wearing the purple "protection" for their grandaddy. Each time they entered a room in his presence, the mask came up. They were all especially thoughtful.
What a joy it was to once again be with our family and enjoy this holiday. We all gathered in a circle in the living room prior to eating and expressed our gratitude for having Grandaddy Lee with us again this year. This had marked exactly one year ago when he became ill. After feasting, I was able to relax while all the girls cleaned the tables, dishes, etc. I was truly blessed!
Later, Michaela(14) played the guitar and sang some of her songs and after the boys finished a game of tag football on the lawn I was able to convince them to play the piano for me. Max(5) played first and we named his beautiful song, "Running Waters", since he enjoyed rippling over the keys. Carson (9) followed with his recital piece and Chase(12) played his very own composed music. Truly a joy for his Nana!
Today as I talked to my brother Dennis, I learned that Betsy's mother died earlier this morning. She had a stroke two weeks ago and another one today. Please remember their family in your prayers. Betsy's Mom, Alice Newton was a wonderful, genteel lady and I will remember her with great fondness.
So good to be able to blog a little now. Lee continues to improve and is doing very well. Today he was able to drive his truck for the first time in about a year. He took it for a ride and had it inspected. He now walks mostly with a cane and is indeed enjoying his independence.
More Later...........................................Brenda
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