Thankful for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time to not only reflect on the things you’re most grateful for, but a joyous time to spend with your family and friends. Not only do I love giving thanks for all I have in my life, but marks the beginning of my favorite time of year. This year marks the fourth year I haven’t celebrated Thanksgiving back home, but instead of enjoying the day with military friends—who become your surrogate family during the holidays—my mom, dad, and grandma are joining us, and I couldn’t be happier!  

Even though Kenny and I have spent three Thanksgivings together before, this is our first one as husband and wife. If there is one thing I am most thankful for, it’s that he is in my life. I know people joke about their spouses being their “better half,” but he is truly an amazing husband, in every single way. I am also thankful for our health. With so many illnesses out there today, being healthy is something I’m so grateful for.

And my family, well, I couldn’t ask for better and more supportive, loving people in my life. Every single one of them—from my grandma down to my itty bitty cousins are absolutely amazing and I love that we’re all getting closer as we get older. 

While I’m on a roll…I’m also thankful for my dog. I never knew how much a pet could mean to me, but having Bella around when my husband is gone is so comforting. And watching my dog an my husband interact just melts my heart. Not only that, but she’s pretty much the most awesome dog ever…I’m not kidding. 

And last, but not least, I’m thankful for my friends. Near and far, and in real life and through this blog and twitter. I am so very thankful for all of you. I know some people don’t understand why I’m constantly on twitter or why I blog, but you guys get it and you’re supportive, not to mention that you I’m able to “talk” to people while I work from home all day. And my friends in real life, you guys check in on me, make me laugh, include me in things, and are always there for me.

I’m just so thankful for everything and everyone in my life. I am humbled to know so many amazing people. Please know that you’re not taken for granted and I appreciate each and every one of you. 

And because I’m also thankful for food to nourish my body, I’d like to share what what I’m looking forward to tomorrow. (Sorry for the bad photos—I was too busy wanting to eat last year than to worry about making it a pretty picture!)

 Turkey. We’re using Alton Brown’s Roast Turkey method again. We’ve used it the past three years and love the moist, flavorful meat it produces. Try it, you won’t be dissapointed. 

Green Bean Casserole. This is the best green bean casserole you’ll ever eat. Ever. I’m just sorry I didn’t get my act together and give you the recipe ahead of time. I’ll post it ahead of time next year, I promise. 

Cranberry Relish. Truth be told, this is actually called “Pineapple Berry Relish,” but it has more cranberries than pineapple. It’s sweet, tangy, crunchy, and compliments the turkey perfectly. I’ll post that recipe next year, too.