"Thanksgiving is the holiday of peace, the celebration of work and the simple life... a true folk-festival that speaks the poetry of the turn of the seasons, the beauty of seedtime and harvest, the ripe product of the year - and the deep, deep connection of all these things with God."

~Ray Stannard Baker (David Grayson)

I borrowed this quote from my fabulous friend Susan.

Thanksgiving is on the horizon, and I could not be happier about it. We are traveling home to the Midwest for a lovely weekend on my parents' farm. Here are some things I can count on:

1. The cats will have a thick, warm winter coat.

2. The gardens will be asleep for the winter, but if I look closely, I'll see old blooms still on the vine.

3. My mom will make the most amazing mashed potatoes and desserts.

4. If it is really cold, my dad will let the dog in the house. This was taboo when I was little. :)

5. My uncle will call me redneck. Well, he'd better or I'll be disappointed.

6. My sister will be walking around with her camera, capturing our family's history with each click.

7. Annabelle will crawl into my dad's lap, and they both will look very content. He'll bribe her with gum.

8. I'll marvel at my sisters-in-law, who bring a lot of joy to our family.

9. My nieces and nephews will look like they've grown a foot.

10. I will feel very thankful for my good life, good friends, good health, and such a wonderful family.