Thinking back, looking forward, and being thankful

As the Thanksgiving holiday has been approaching, my thoughts return to this time a year ago. The joy that filled my life seems so tangible, yet so distant. There were many things I was thankful for; the future was wide open and I was full of optimism. Now, a year later, my life and future seem completely different. The goals and aspirations I held a year ago have wavered, yet the direction, speed, and optimism seem different... as though they are or were another's life. I am happy and joyous, though for different things, it seems. There are a few things that have remain consistent, like the joy and gratitude of wonderful friends and community. Yesterday and today I had the opportunity to share in the preparation and consumption of wonderfully scrumptious and tasty food. Although I seem to congregate with fellow foodies who take their cooking seriously with a large helping of flavorful fun, today's meal was special, just as each of the wonderful gatherings we create are. I will greatly miss these wonderful fun filled food gatherings and hope to create and partake of such events during the next chapter of my life.

On to more important things... what did we eat? Like last year, there were a few vegetarians [some more strict than others] and gluten and dairy free diet restrictions. However, none of the dietary restrictions were an issue [one of the wonderful reasons I love cooking such great people!]. Our Txgiving meal was composed of a variety of dishes, including some new recipes. The afternoon was started with a tasty glass of bourbon slush, which was kept full through most the evening. It is a wonderful treat and a Txgiving tradition I acquired from some good friends. The drink mixture is prepared at least a day in advance and frozen, then topped w/ ginger ale or the equivalent. It has become one of my favorite parts of the holiday! This year, there was an oven roasted chicken, marinated bear grilled and then basted w/ a secret special sauce, parsnip rice with carmalized butternut squash, macaroni & cheese, broccoli and cauliflower casserole, stuffed acorn squash, savory spinach salad w/ homemade balsamic vinegar dressing, gluten free cornbread, and for dessert.... chocolate sweet potato torte. Even though I am still stuffed, just thinking about it makes my mouth water.