thankful, outrageously

in the spirit of

giving thanks

we often look at the biggies

life

love

health

for which i am truly blessed

we may look to the small

often overlooked 

beauty

nature's bounty
of sunrise and sunset
flower and fauna

clean air and water

for which i strive

to consciously

give due notice

and then

there are those

glimmers of perfection

that almost take your 

breath

like that first

taste of the turkey

that has been filling your home

with roasting goodness

and it is declared 

delicious

by all who sample

 gathered around

in the smallest room

to be together

for those last minute preparations

rolls in the oven

gravy made to utopian standards

(thanks, susie)

the traditional sides

kept warm

and plated for serving

why

 even the dogs

know

that something great

is about to happen

and they stay

close

while mom and sue

help every step of the way

cutting and chopping

stirring and tasting

providing the necessary dose

of laughter

sons who graciously help

wherever needed

a husband who not only carves

but cleans the dinner dishes 

as well

wow

a time for

thanksgiving

indeed

good food

good drink

good company

fun words

served up with the 

pumpkin pie

and 

after dinner coffee

wishing it wouldn't end

that we could stall time

just this once

then

as if in answer

the snow began to fall

temperatures dropped

cold enough to store beverages outdoors

making room in my 

crowded frig

road conditions worsened

and just like that

the fun was extended with

an overnight guest 

holding onto this time a bit longer

we watched a movie

drank a hot toddy

before

finally giving in to sleep

waking with mom

  enjoying her morning presence

over a coffee and a 

big

breakfast

remembering childhood dreams

prayers

that a day

could somehow last

forever

and like any prayer

God answered

and granted a memory

that will do

just that.

amen.