Thanksgiving Potluck

Four families gathered to share a potluck dinner. The kids ran wild in the house, across the lawn, and through a tunnel in the hedge. The adults sipped festive beverages and talked baseball and gardening, Volkswagons and travel. A friend helped Zoe and Vincent each pick a golden apple straight from an old tree in the yard. Zoe's came away with leaves, which tickled her face as she ate. Vincent's chin ran with apple juice.

We ate our meal outside, a little bit chilly, but in the last slant of the afternoon sun. Adults hopped up and down to help children, get more napkins, take pictures. Pumpkin pie, made from pumpkins grown by our hosts, was eaten around the fire pit. The kids, now fueled by calories and getting giddy, raced around more wildly than before.

The temperature dropped after sunset, making the fire pit feel even cozier. By six o'clock it was fully dark, and also cold and damp. The children moved inside, and the grownups followed with platters of food and drinks. By the time the leftovers were divvied up and the dishes were stacked, the kids were fading. Zoe and Vincent yawned all the way home.

It was an excellent Thanksgiving. We spent it with good people, in a beautiful place, eating delicious food. I am thankful.