It’s time once again to take a moment out of a hectic day to say — I’m thankful for everything I have in my life, especially family and friends! Your support as I travel the long road to publication has been solid and unwavering. You encourage me to continue knocking on doors, believing that the day will come when my books can be shared with more than just my critique partners. I thank you for being there, for listening to my prattle, for sharing my enthusiasm when new ideas and characters develop and I can’t stop sharing them. I love you for the inspiration you spark simply by being a part of my life. Thank you.

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. As the turkey cooks, the house becomes infused with fragrant and spicey aromas that carry me back in time. To the large gatherings at my mother’s dining room table, where conversation, both french and english, laughter, wine, and delicious food flowed like there was no tomorrow. Family, friends, and neighbors who had no place else to go joined together to share in the festivities. My favorite side dish then was my mother’s homemade stuffing, a recipe none of us have been able to duplicate.

My mother is no longer with us, but my husband and I try to carry on the tradition of opening our house to family and friends and neighbors who may not have family to go to. The menus have changed over the years, though the turkey is always on center stage. My new favorite side is my husband’s sweet potato casserole with toasted marshmallows on top. Thanksgiving for us is a day to go for a nice long run, to enjoy the people in our lives, and to give thanks for our health and happiness.

What does Thanksgiving mean to you? Do you have a favorite memory or dish? Do you usually celebrate it with a large group or as a simple and intimate gathering? I encourage you to share your special moments with us … Happy Thanksgiving – and may you always have good health and lots of happiness. Hugs – Christine.