Thanksgiving was very nice- a chance to eat too much, chat and catch up with family and their own growing families. My nieces, who it seems, were babies just last week are growing into fine young women and having families of their own. It is a curious thing to change the diapers of one whose mother’s diaper you changed just a little while ago. Babies are one of the nicer things about holiday gatherings.  I observed and thought a lot about how some roles repeat from generation to generation, and sensed that this is just a tiny part of the larger picture or patterns of life. Hard to put into words, but definitely one of those grand “ah ha” sorts of moments.

 Today we got up early ,,,and headed for two places no one would be clamoring to visit. First stop was the woods for a hike through a tall grass prairie restoration in the very stiff, cold breeze. We had the entire 1,000 acre prairie to ourselves, to walk, look and listen. There is something very restorative about being in he woods. It’s a little easier to hear yourself think and to feel God tapping on your shoulder with answers o the questions that run through your head. Are we doing the right things in school ? Are they thriving? What would be a great way to make World War 2 interesting and meaningful? How many cups of meat can I get out of a 26 pound turkey ? You know the drill.

 After our walk we went out for lunch to a very cozy family friendly pizza place that had numerous old timey farm implements on the walls for decorations. Son knew was several of these were, which was fun and reassuring. The order of the day there was to throw peanut shells on the floor, and this made for a bit of approved “naughty” fun. It’s one of those things that make for a little mini book in the lapbook of family time memories.

 After that we went to the grocery store, and almost had the place to ourselves. We have done this in years past. No one seems to think of grocery shopping the day after Thanksgiving. No massive sales, just peace and needful things.

 We came home and I made yet another turkey for the leftovers. We love it and it works in any recipe calling for cooked turkey. Tonight I am running two crock pots to make turkey stock- so good in so many soups and such. Once again it can be used in anything calling for chicken stock. I only hope I have enough room in my freezer to hold it all,

 May your worst problem be struggling to find spaces and places to hold all of your bountiful blessings !

Posted by cahanbury

It is amazing how the regular spots are empty on the Friday after Thanksgiving. I had a similar experience at the grocery store today. We mostly stayed home and hid though...too much traffic!

Posted by socalval

Thanks for stopping by today. It's so nice to meet new people and visit their blogs. Tomorrow I host Prayer Request Sunday if you want to stop by and help me pray for those who have requested... Hope to see you again soon.

Valerie