Whew!  Things have been a bit quiet here on the blog – with the exception of Wednesday’s reading round-up, I haven’t posted much in about a week.  The reason – for those who don’t already know – is that we were out of town.  (I like to fly slightly below the radar; I’ll share real-time posts of travels on Instagram, because my account is private, but I keep trips quiet on other social media, including here, until I’m back.)  We spent Thanksgiving (and several days before and after) with my brother and sister-in-law in Colorado this year.  I’ve got plenty of travel recaps to come in the next few weeks, but for now, a look at our Thanksgiving.

We woke up to snow!  My brother Dan and sister-in-law Danielle live in a sweet log cabin in the Rocky Mountains, and they already had some snow, but on Thanksgiving we were blessed with an extra few inches of soft Colorado powder – and a visit from this absolutely gorgeous fox.  (The dog went NUTS.)

Peanut stayed cozy in her fleece mittens and snow boots, even in the house.  (Their house was perfectly warm and cozy – Peanut is just opinionated about her attire and she was on a boots jag last week.)  Extra cuddles for Dan and Danielle’s dog Finnegan, who was a champ all week.  He’s not used to having little kids around, but he was very sweet and patient with Peanut.

Let the cooking begin!  Finnegan was very interested in all the activity going on in the kitchen.  Dan and Danielle wouldn’t let us help at all – they insisted on spoiling us rotten with a delicious meal that we didn’t lift a finger to create.  Talk about thankful!

Dan cured the turkey, and it was the best I’ve ever had – finally laying to rest the cure vs. brine debate that has been raging between him and Steve for years.  Cure, all the way.  (Look at that beggar dog!)

While our hosts cooked, Peanut napped, and Nugget and I enjoyed some FaceTime with far-flung family members.  My grandmother, aunt and cousin all got the chance to video-chat with the little guy.  It had been several months since they’d last seen him and they were all amazed at how big he’s gotten.  He did lots of tricks for them – sitting up, playing with toys, and babbling and razzing for almost an hour.  Little sweet guy…

Finally, time to eat!  Homemade cranberry sauce, stuffing (I passed – not a fan), turkey, a MOUNTAIN of mashed potatoes, and mashed squash – plus unpictured homemade dinner rolls!  Danielle is a star baker and is not scared of yeast at all.  (Wish I lived closer – I’d beg for bread-baking lessons.)

My plate.  Gravy added after the picture.  I was amazed at how tender and flavorful the turkey was – even the white meat.  I’ve never actually enjoyed turkey breast before.  It was a new experience.

So thankful for this crew.  Being together on Thanksgiving was the best gift ever.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, my friends!  I’m thankful for YOU.