This poem was originally posted in November, 2018. The text was revised and republished one year later. The verses capture my own memories of Thanksgiving during my youth when my extended family gathered at my maternal grandmother’s house.  Blessings to all!

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Remembering annual family gatherings from years past

Enjoying special, blessed times which will last and last

Filling Grandma’s packed house with people from near and far

Seeing aunts, uncles, and cousins—as numerous as the stars

Feeling the crisp, autumn air—possibly snow on the ground

Arriving with abundant food and family love to pass around

Pitching in, many helping hands prepare the meal

Eating together on Thanksgiving is a very big deal

Catching up on life from several corners of the state

Thanking the Lord that all arrived safely on this date

Listening to exciting conversation that fills the tiny house

Disappearing from a kitchen corner, a frightened mouse!

Preparing so many favorite and delicious treats

Tasting each will make today an awesome feast

Setting up Grandma’s sizable dining room table with care

Deciding where each family member will sit, here or there

Providing for extra places to eat in the living room

Anticipating that all of us will be eating very soon

Smelling the huge turkey roasting in the oven until finally done

Carving this bird and splitting the wishbone, most delicious fun

Pleasing everyone’s taste buds, with a gathering of yummy dishes

Adding stuffing, mashed potatoes, and yams to everyone’s wishes

Saving room for a sweet symphony of delicious pies

Savoring a slice of pumpkin or many others—Oh my!

Exchanging stories, playing cards, and watching football

Realizing too soon that the time says, “Goodnight to all”

Departing for home, before everyone’s bedtime arrives

Blessing our family time, this thanksgiving feels so alive

Smiling from her large window, Grandma feels so much love

Looking forward to experiencing peace, from the Lord above