We have 2 suet feeders on our huge maple, and they were empty, so I decided the birds needed a treat on thanksgiving as well.

Within 10 minutes of the food being out there, I spotted over 10 different species of birds.  I am still in shock at the variety.

• blue jays
• sparrows
• european starlings
• robins
• nuthatchs
• downy woodpecker
• red-bellied woodpecker
• titmouses

Most of them, I had seen in our yard before, but there were several that I still can’t identify.

The big highlight of the day was a vibrant nothern cardinal which was eating on the ground, under the little tree house.  He was there for several minutes, and I couldn’t believe my eyes.  Now, if I could only get him on camera…

• The only thing I’d planned to do and didn’t make, was the pumpkin pie. I ran out of time, and figured one pie was enough for 6 of us.
• We had the turkey, 5 sides, cranberry sauce and gravy.
• We had Manhattan meatballs, bread and apples for appetizer.
• We had an apple pie and mulled cider for dessert.
• A good time was had by all.
• Phoenix ate most of his meal without too much fuss.
• Willik love the corn casserole and turkey.
• My mom’s sweet potato with marshmallows was a big hit.
• Fabio thought the turkey was dry, but no one else did.
• We have tons of leftovers, and I’m really glad I made it all.

Here are a few pictures..

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Soon after, we started also adding Michelle and family, but then their plans were up in the air, and without a dining room table, it would be hard to serve that many people.

Then last sunday, Jill had to go to Oklahoma immediately, since her niece who has cystic fribrosis, and had a double lung transplant a couple years ago, has not been doing well.

So then we went back to asking Michelle about coming, but she also turned us down, cause she would be hosting Fabio’s dad.

So, after starting to plan for 6, I was asked by Fabio’s cousin if she could come.  So then we have a possible 8.  At this point, Michelle called and invited us to come down, but I told her we already had ordered a fresh turkey from the nearby farm, and I had purchsed most of the ingredients for our meal, so we would have to pass.

So, we’re back to a definete 6, with the possibility of 2 more, on a whim. 

Here’s what I’m making…

• Fresh Roast Turkey with a Orange/Onion/Sage infusion
• Mashed sweet potatoes casserole
• Sauteed Green Beans with Pine Nuts and Walnuts
• Chestnut Stuffing
• Two potatoes Au Gratin
• Cranberry Sauce

 Appetizers: Manhattan Meatballs and homemade bread and cheese platter

Dessert: Classic Apple Pie and Pumpkin Pie

Drink: Mulled Apple Cider

What are you making?  Or, who doesn’t have a place to be?  Let us know and we can sneak you into the Mir plans.

This will be the first thanksgiving in which I’m doing a traditional Thankgiving meal all on my own.  I am very excited!!!