A Rare Occasion

Thanksgiving has always been a very special family time for the Rich (Sheerer) side of the family. It has been a family reunion for the past 54 years. This year we had between 50-60 folks during the day on Thursday. It has become a "community" effort more than ever over the past several years and this year was no exception. Many hands prepare favorite dishes that have become traditional and expected. Aunt Nona Sue's cheese grits are a must! Janice's green bean, corn, almond casserole is another. Two of the hash brown potato casseroles (one without onions) the special jello salads, and sliced turkey and ham with Grandma's cornbread dressing and giblet gravy I could go on and on!

One of our contributions is the tablecloth that everyone signs on Thanksgiving day and has chronicled our years since 1986. Last year we filled the last section and I added a wide border in order to continue this tradition. We also did a trivia game show last year using the tablecloth for verification of some of the answers! Fun!

The amazing thing this year, was that ALL of the Riches were present except Grandma Virginia (advanced Alzheimer's in respite care for these few days) and it was joyful! Usually a few are either too far away to come, or have family commitments on their "other side" of the family, but this year we were all there. We ranged in age from 85 (Grandpa Ken) to 6 months (baby Jaxon). I don't know when I have laughed so hard or "rolled my eyes" so much! That is family!

I am so very blessed to be a part of this amazing group. Each one has their own special place in the family. It was so touching, funny, happy, sad, irritating, annoying and wonderful. That is family!

At the end of the day, we love each other, and we claim each other. That's Family!

Now about eating:

• nibbling works
• bits of ham and turkey were fine
• green beans and green bean/corn casserole
• bits of cheese grits
• part of a roll

What doesn't work for me:

• cornbread dressing
• fresh veggies
• fruit

surprises:

• popcorn
• pretzels
• a bit of pumpkin pie (not the crust)

I took sugar free pudding, protein drinks, string cheese and protein bars. These were great for breakfasts or night snacks when I wasn't able to eat much for supper.

From Peggy's book:

"God always gives the best to those who leave the choice with Him."

-unknown