The gravy boat is empty. The crowd has gone home. Leftovers are put away. The kitchen is clean again. Yet the smell of a roasting turkey lingers in the house. I wonder how long that will last as I reflect on the day.
It feels a bit lonely this morning. I love preparing Thanksgiving dinner and having a full house. The smells, the noise, the laughter. Sharing a meal and too much of it at that! Fun conversations and tripping over each other in our less than modest home. Seeing family when we are too far apart and don’t see each other often enough. Inviting new friends to join in. It was all good.
But today I woke up with thoughts of what I could have done differently.
This year went smoother than most. I made myself a detailed list and followed it. I only tackled the next thing on the list and didn’t allow myself to think about all the rest of what I had to do. No panicking. Just one step at a time.
So here’s what I feel I could have done better. Instead of daydreaming and allowing my mind to wander, I could have prayed for each person on our guest list while prepping, cooking and baking. Funny how I didn’t think of this two days ago and now it seems so simple and obvious. That combined with thanking God for all of the different ways he has blessed us. Although I maintained an attitude of gratitude throughout, I wasn’t specifically praying.
So look out. If you are joining us for Thanksgiving next year, just know I’ll be praying for you as I go. You better hope I don’t get too distracted and burn anything!
Happy Thanksgiving, friends. I’d love to hear how you make the day special. Comments are always welcomed and enjoyed.
~Carolyn
Hey, life isn’t easy. Together we can make it better.
A most excellent idea! I imagine there are way too many of us who get so involved with the preparations that we don’t do the most important Thanks for the reminder!
I’m relieved I’m not the only one-thank you for commenting!
Great post! The practice of prayer for others, is a blessing in itself for me. This simple act always reminds me to enjoy life. Not enjoy as in “see what I can get out of it”, rather “what joy can I bring to this moment?”. Just as I would en-trust someone or thing I can also en-joy moments with loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving!
I love your words. Thank you!
Missed you so much at thanksgiving. It wasn’t the same My nursing home is nice but it doesn’t give out hugs like you.
Love you beyond measure.
Awe. Thanks momma. Things will change soon. I love you.
When families are split apart by bitter, self-serving members, holidays are the worst. I prayed, a lot. I guess I need to concentrate on the good. Seems to shrink every year.
Thank you for your friendship and your words, Carolyn. Much Love.
I’m so sorry for the strife you’re experiencing. I’ll be praying for you and your family in the hopes for better for all of you.
Ephesians 4:32 spells it out. Easy in theory, often difficult to practice when tensions are high.
Hugs and love, my friend.