Social Graces: a holiday of thanks

I am plum worn out and this mini vacay has gone by way too fast, but it has been so wonderful no doubt. As I am reliving the memories from this past week thoughts of family, friends, thanks, laughter, and of course food dance through my head. Thanksgiving is one of my most favorite holidays (well they're all my favorite but that's besides the point here) and it has to do with the traditions and time spent with dear ones and as I like to say officially kicking off the holiday season! Our Thanksgiving goes a little something like this each year and we don't stray far from it...the Townsend family does it up big at Aunt Holly and Uncle Neil's house; we say we're eating at 1:00--no one shows up until 1:30; casseroles and pies of every kind are displayed on the kitchen island--some all-time favorites include corn casserole and sweet potato casserole; two turkeys are up for grabs--my favorite is Uncle Neil's smoked turkey...it melts in your mouth and I'm pretty sure you would've found me actually picking the meat off of this bird (can you even imagine?!); first and second plates are served after dad says grace; pies and seasonal desserts are devoured; next comes nap time (!!) and usually we go back home to take our naps but this year I fell asleep on my cousin's bed...while they rest of my family thought it would be funny to take a picture of me sleeping with my mouth wide open (unfortunately I don't own that picture or else I would post it for your enjoyment but many of you know that image); after we did finally make it home...nap was continued; when supper time rolls around we are back over at the T's for round two (please note this is one of the very few times I willingly and excitedly do leftovers!); night concludes with repeated family stories, more dessert, and laughter and we all go home stuffed and satisfied. My Thanksgiving, truly a blessing all around~