We had a lot to be thankful for this past week. Despite the drought, the trees are prettier than I think I have ever seen them. This year the oaks really turned a rich shade of red. We took our guests from Florida down to see our creek and I am pleased to report there is actually water flowing now in the Big Scarecorn. Our two painted donkeys, Willie and Waylon, suddenly decided to turn friendly. Our neighbors, the Wares, graciously allowed our animals to graze their good pastures for a few days. I completed my entry for a charity cookbook I want to start. My husband and I are both in good health, and so happy together.

And did I mention the feast? The Mayor of Hinton brought creamed corn and green beans straight from his garden. Our guest, Carol Applebee, made the mashed potatoes and she and her husband gave us a great bottle of wine and a beautiful wine stopper from Murano. I brined the organic turkey, and it was the most moist I have ever tasted. And my husband pronounced my cornbread dressing almost perfect. A life full of blessings. Hope some blessings found your way to your house this week, too.