Thanksgiving Surprise

I'm going to skip another annual classic--the story about the first Thanksgiving dinner I ever cooked (for my future in-laws)--the message was don't stress about the food, it's the company that counts (even in Texas).  Instead, this year I'm remembering a different Thanksgiving.  A year that I was particularly thankful--I think I was 8.


My mom wasn't feeling well that November and that usually meant I would get shipped off to my grandmother's house.  And I was.  "Shipped" is just an expression--she only lived 80 yards away.  The 2 bedroom apartment behind her little grocery store was tiny, but cozy.  I didn't mind being there, but I didn't like being sent away, if that makes sense.  I wanted to be with my family for Thanksgiving.


This is where the surprise comes in.  My parents and siblings had Thanksgiving dinner with me at my grandmother's.  I know that sounds like a normal thing--but, again, grandma's apartment was tiny (teeny, tiny).  We never had family gatherings there.  Never, except for that once.


Because it was so small, the three adults ate at the kitchen table and the kids scattered in the store.  Two of my sisters sat at the counter on stools to eat their dinner.  I hopped up on the ancient Coke box (I have a picture of a similar cooler, but it won't upload).   My two brothers shared the large, flat freezer.


It was odd, but memorable.  We were all together and I was thankful for that.


What am I thankful for today?  Like every day, I am thankful for my immediate family and good friends--especially the very special people I've met through blogging.  I appreciate the chance to know you and share a small part of your lives--and the chance to way over-share about my life.  :)


Thank you! 


PS - Let the Christmas music begin!!!