The Day After

Participating in Black Friday sounds like torture to me. I'm always exhausted the day after Thanksgiving. And I don't love to shop in the first place. So I can't imagine looking forward to the crowds and chaos of Black Friday. I prefer Quiet Friday.

I saw a piece on television this week about a group who is protesting the way commercialism is now taking over the Thanksgiving Holiday. Black Friday is almost eclipsing Thanksgiving Day and shopping is eclipsing (for some) time that used to be spent enjoying family. But for me, Thanksgiving will always be about family time and lots of great food, followed by a day of recuperating from all the hard work. In spite of the reality of hours and hours of preparation and hundreds of dollars spent, all consumed in a matter of minutes, I enjoy hosting Thanksgiving. And this year was no exception -- except for the fact that I had to medicate (my shoulder) and enlist more help.

This year, Cheryl, Rebecca and I cooked the meal together. I just knew I couldn't do it all myself with my shoulder limitations and pain. So they both spent the night Wednesday night and we started team-cooking in the morning. It was really fun. Danny, Rebecca and the kids stayed last night, too. And after they left, I just sat down with my microwaved moist heat. I did manage to unload the dishwasher and start a load of laundry. But I'm still trying to work up the energy and motivation to do the much-needed straightening up and vacuuming. I was so thankful that John, Rebecca and Cheryl did the dishes and divided up the leftovers last night, insisting that I sit down.

I can't fathom going shopping today! Or anywhere, for that matter. I am so tired.

However you are spending it, I hope you're enjoying the Thanksgiving weekend!

Here are a few of my favorite Thanksgiving pictures this year...

We didn't eat until 4:00. But we spent the whole day together. The guys snacked on some cheese and crackers for lunch while the girls cooked. (But John always does the turkey, which was in the oven at this point.)
My nephew Matt and me...





Cheryl preparing the potatoes...










More turkey broth for the gravy, please...










Nicole, reading to Pax...




The kids' table (minus Jackson and Pax, who were asleep)...


The big table...



The kiddos...
(Joshua, Andrew, Jackson, Nicole and Pax)


Pax and Poppy John...



Comments

MelissaQ said…
Not sure how I ended up on your blog, but so I wouldnt feel like such a snoop, I had to stop by and tell you what a nice blog you have. :O) You are so blessed to be surrounded by so many people who love you. That is def. something to be Thankful for.
Shari said…
I AM indeed very blessed! Thanks for saying hello. But never feel like a snoop. I welcome new visitors to my blog any time!