All was calm yet anticipatory this morning as the last snow shower ceased and the temperature finally rose above the freezing mark.
By noon we were ready. The turkey, brined overnight, was snug on the outdoor gas grill, being roasted and smoked with apple wood chips. The potatoes were peeled, the yams sauced, the fresh fruit compote chilling in the fridge. We had time to sit and rest, and read the paper.
By 1:00 all seven of our guests had safely arrived. The young guys played cribbage and the older adults visited as we munched on cheese and crackers and punch and wine and home brew - something for everyone.
The turkey was cooking slowly, so we put everything on hold while it finished. A beautiful bird deserves to be waited for. And it was a very good bird!
At 3:00 we sat down to this dining table, ate, and enjoyed each other's company.-
There was help with the clean up, and later there was pie.
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By 6:00 everyone had departed. Each of the three young men was sent off with a container of left overs for another meal at home. Tom and I did a few more dishes, and put things away. Tomorrow we'll hand wash the crystal stem ware and then all will be done.
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What started out as a last minute change of plans ended up a perfect Thanksgiving celebration, as if it had been planned all along.
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And for that, and for so many other things, I am very grateful.
looks lovely, great memories when it's all over with.
ReplyDeleteSorry I don't have any photos of the guests or the food. I was too busy cooking and visiting and coordinating to take photos. But the memories are imprinted in my minds eye for all time.
ReplyDeleteWhat fabulous photos, Linda. That is an absolutely gorgeous table. I'm so happy that you had such a great Thanksgiving. Everything looks so wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI had to come back again to look at your table. Wow!
ReplyDeleteYes, Linda, your table was beautifully set. Very nice. I am glad everything went well for you all.
ReplyDeleteThe day after is just great - no need to cook!
I'm not a big fan of turkey, but I would LOVE to taste smoked turkey like yours. It sounds fabulous, and the table setting was beyond perfect. All I can say is, WOW, and thank you SO MUCH for sharing it with me. We didn't even have a tablecloth, but for Smart Guy and me, just setting the table is a big deal, only done a few times a year.
ReplyDeleteThat turkey sounds fantastic! And probably healthier than my technique of slathering the bird in butter... :)
ReplyDeleteWe played a lot of cribbage, too! Your table looks lovely and it sounds like a wonderful holiday for your family. Happy Thanksgiving!
Your table is absolutely lovely! The view from the windows was perfect. Thanks for letting us in on your holiday celebration.
ReplyDeleteI was struck by a few things: You and I have the same china pattern, or anyway, they look the same. Mine is Noritake and was purchased in 1966. I also have the same glass turkey that I always fill with cranberry sauce.
Wow. You set a beautiful table! Bet the meal was as wonderful as the table decor. It sure sounded it.
ReplyDeleteWow. You set a beautiful table! Bet the meal was as wonderful as the table decor. It sure sounded it.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a movie setting...so glad you had a wonderful celebration.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful table. And it sounds like you had a great day...
ReplyDeleteI think we have the same crystal. Lismore?
You put the turkey in a brine. I saw that on the Food Network. I can't believe that you have had more snow that I have so far. What strange weather....
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