Thanksgiving heart

What is at the heart of Thanksgiving...?

There is food, family, and gratefulness...

But what else makes it truly special?

Tradition is what comes to mind.

For us that comes in the form of "moms" special touches.

Her favorite amber pressed glass dishes, beautiful crystal glasses and silver place settings.

Along with a traditional roasted turkey and stuffing with homemade cranberries and gravy.

These photos are from last year...as we gathered at my parents' home.

Her table setting, floral arrangements, and decorations

 all make up the tradition of our special Thanksgiving experience.  

Dad pours the wine, 

leads us in grace,

and raises a glass to toast all family and friends

who are gathered near and far, 

and we remember those who have passed on.

All of it has come to represent the heart of Thanksgiving for us.

It is a beautiful package for which I am grateful.

 This year I will play host to my in-laws in our new home.

And I am caught between the Thanksgiving I love and know,

and the one we will create in our home.

The baton is passed in the relay of life...

We will claim many of the old traditions....
and add some new ones as well,
like our blessing box--
a recently rediscovered, now 30 year old hand-made stained glass
gift my mom received and passed down to me and it fits the bill perfectly.

And we will pour the wine 

and toast to those near and far.

And we will find the heart of Thanksgiving 

in remembering the traditions of family gathering... 

and favorite china and crystal...

And our favorite foods...

(including the Latvian family recipe for cranberry sauce!)

and most of all,

 giving thanks for the blessings we share...

Happy Thanksgiving 2015!