I drank a cup of coffee after the company had gone, the kitchen was cleaned, and the others were settled on the couch in front of the TV. I needed it. After two days of cooking, and then a day of entertaining and eating, I was exhausted.

It was a mistake. It’s now after midnight and I can’t sleep. I could lie here in bed and shop online for Black Friday sales, but I really don’t need anything. So, here I am blogging instead. The house is so dark, quiet and wonderfully peaceful.

***

I’ve often confessed that I am more comfortable in an office than a kitchen. However, I must say I outdid myself with this year’s Thanksgiving meal. Every menu item was prepared and cooked to perfection. I am very happy that my first holiday meal in this house went so well.

The turkey, the centerpiece of the feast, is usually a cause of consternation. First, I worry about its size.. How many ounces per person? Then there’s the issue of cost. This year’s kosher eighteen-pound turkey was ninety dollars! (Seriously. Kroger had the nerve to charge four ninety-nine a pound!!) And then there’s the process of roasting it. I am thrilled to report that the orange, rosemary and sage within the cavity did their jobs; he bird was flavorful, moist, and yielded a decent amount of leftovers for Friday lunch.

Were there any snafus? Of course. My husband was given the task of melting the marshmallows on top of the sweet potato casserole. He had a “squirrel” moment – got distracted– and a minute later I was scraping off the charbroiled, blackened topping as others ran around making sure the smoke detectors didn’t go off. Fortunately, the dish was saved. It and the stuffing, the whipped potatoes, the veggies, and the cranberry sauce were all yummy.

***

Having my sister and brother-in-law in from Israel — to see my new home and share holiday — was particularly special. Watching my kids interact with our guests made my heart swell. Getting compliments and hearing sounds of approval from those around the table made it all worthwhile.

It was a beautiful, happy day. Once again, I am grateful and give thanks for my blessings.

Now, I’ve earned a good night’s sleep full of pleasant dreams.