A Covid Thanksgiving
I’ve come to a painful conclusion. In the interest of putting this plague behind us, I’m willing to wear a mask, social distance, and forgo my usual Thanksgiving. Yes, this year the Carnahan family’s holiday gathering held each November for the last 60-some years is cancelled or, at least, greatly modified.
Thanksgiving Past
Hitching up our team of Belgian draft horses was part of the Thanksgiving afternoon activities years ago. Nine people in this 1980s photo are no longer with us, nor are the animals. And the farm house burned in 2001. In foreground: Robin, Russ and Deb and their Newfoundland, Brigus; Mel and I (green sweater) on far right; Randy managing the horses; and Tom in yellow shirt. (Bonus points to any family member who can name the most people in this photo—including dog and horses.)
Keep the Meaning of Thanksgiving
In recent years, our holiday numbers have grown to 30-40 family members and friends. I only eat turkey and dressing once a year, a meal I find all the more satisfying when shared. But this Thanksgiving it looks like there will be six of us—just those in my immediate bubble.
Alternatives
I earlier told my family that I’d just send each of them a Swanson turkey dinner and plan a Zoom call later in the day. They didn’t find that idea nearly as amusing as I did.
I noticed some restaurants and food delivery services are offering Thanksgiving meals. Great idea.
Turkey wrestling on Thanksgiving morning—once upon a time.
My Current Plan
As of now, I think I’ll just stuff and cook a small turkey, since that’s the part of the meal I enjoy most. As for the sides, Melissa Clark’s New York Times recipe for Roasted Potatoes in Duck Fat caught my eye. But I’ll likely stick with mashed potatoes, so the gravy has a place to puddle. Hmm. . . I may need some cheese grits or a scalloped corn casserole. JC likes those. And a little cranberry sauce for added color and tang.
Stick to the Favorites
In the interest of the food pyramid, I suppose I should have a green vegetable. I’m not sure a souped-up green bean casserole counts. Perhaps Brussels sprouts. Russ and Deb turn out a tasty roasted version. A pumpkin, cherry, or apple pie to round out the meal would be nice. Maybe Robin will bake one for us.
Whee! I’ve got my Thanksgiving planned! That was sure a lot easier than last year. 🙂
Whatever You Do, Remember This . . .
I suspect some of your Thanksgiving plans are awkward, too. But even in harsh times, we can still be thankful for the many blessings of life and liberty. There’s an old, Baptist hymn that goes, “Count your many blessings, name them one by one.” Not a bad idea during these wearisome and Covid-depressing times”
Thank you for the reminder to count our blessings—that has always been a tradition at our Thanksgiving meal. There won’t be the usual meal this year. I plan to cook and will deliver portions to my usual guests. My own dinner will be spent with the four-legged member of my household. That’s my bubble. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
So good to hear from you, Linda, and to know that you and your family are willing to sacrifice in the interest of us all. Like you, I look forward to celebrating with loved ones next year.