Thanksgiving dinner

I think I've mentioned before that Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. There is no pressure to give gifts, just the warm feeling of friends and family celebrating. Now, I know for some people the thought of spending time with family is about as appealing as curdled milk, and just for the record there are some family members that I can only spend about a day and a half around. However, this year it was just Big J, little j and I and the day was glorious.

Our Thanksgiving tradition is to go to Monticello and this year, with a fortunate break in the weather, was no exception. It rained nearly three inches the day before, but by early afternoon on Thanksgiving the sky was clear and it was nearly 65 degrees. Perfect for a hike around Mr. Jefferson's home.

We came home to put the turkey in and rest before the big meal. little j asked if we were having a "long dinner." She helped set the table and went outside with Big J to steam the oysters on the barbecue, then it was time to enjoy good food:

Steamed and raw oysters
Afton Mountain Tete de Cuvee Virginia Sparkling Wine

The Simplest Roast Turkey
Wild Rice Dressing with Apples and Chestnuts
Sweet Potato Souffle
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Cranberry Sauce with Pinot Noir
Rebec Vineyards Sweet Sofia

Ginger-Honey Pumpkin Pie
Apple Pie

And of course the next morning there was pumpkin pie for breakfast.