We were 12 for dinner. We miss Irene’s laughter. We give thanks to have so many who will take time from their busy lives to gather and celebrate with us.

Michael made us a lovely dinner and pumpkin and apple pies. Artemis brought a gorgeous and delicious cranberry tart. We feasted! We give thanks for the plenty we enjoy.

The gun deer season opened the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Our sons in law both bagged their deer opening day. Neither Michael nor I did. Michael helped the boys field dress their deer and then hang, skin and quarter them. I helped the girls process the back straps. We will complete packaging venison this coming weekend. Even my daughter who has never liked touching raw meat of any kind said that butchering the deer her husband harvested was “oddly satisfying.” We give thanks that our children wish to partake in the acts that bind us to this land.

I got to read bedtime stories to the Grands. Felix came down with double ear aches this past week, so I went to care for him for a couple of days. We give thanks for having the space and time to get to know this next generation.

Hunting allows us to spend very intimate time with our land. We give thanks for the privilege of caring for this land, and for its support of us.

Michael slaughtered the last giant squash that had been sitting in our guest room in preparation for the pre-hunt sleepover. It has fed both us and our ducks many delicious meals. We got the last storm door installed shortly before it started sifting snow on us. Michael kept the driveway open for hunters to arrive. We are thankful to have the health and strength to make this project we call life move forward with happiness to share.