Thanksgiving, Round 2

Yesterday, we celebrated Thanksgiving at our house.  Round one, in November, didn't go exactly as we had planned.  December didn't make us feel very festive either, and there was a turkey in freezer and a dear friend coming for the night after travelling thousands of miles. Who cares that it's pretty much a random Monday in January?  Why not?  A feast was declared and a feast we had, complete with stuffing, mashed potatoes, turkey, and cherry pie (and some other things).  Everyone lent a hand: the Mr. vacuumed and dusted; Calum snapped beans and peeled potatoes; Ana made place cards, and Iain kept watch at the front door for our guest.  It was a meal to remember, with heaps of laughter and plenty of long, sweet conversation.  And you know what? This time, the thanksgivings came easily.  For the slip of a new knife though an onion; for the bright green of an apple on the wooden cutting board; for the scent of cinnamon and cloves bubbling with cherries on the stove; for "Pretty Girl from Michigan" playing on the stereo in the living room; for a glass of spicy red wine to drink while stirring a pan of gravy; for a heart-friend who could walk in a room and begin right where we left off, and so much more, Lord of All to Thee we raise, this our hymn of grateful praise.