Last night and today have seen a lot of activity in our small kitchen. As bread dough has gone from sloppy to slowly rising. Cherries and apples have become divine smelling pies. Cranberries and dried sour cherries became delicious condiment. And local arugula and spinach are becoming a succulent salad.

As I’ve spent my evening and day prepping and baking I’ve been thinking of the things for which I am thankful.

- For my family. We may not always agree or even always like each other, but we’re always there for each other.

- For Mike, who supports me in everything I do and everything I dream.

- For the family with whom we will share today’s bounty of fresh food.

- For my pets. The hens that give us eggs and entertainment. Sterling, the cat, whose been with me 10 years and still likes to curl up for a cuddle in the mornings. For Sam the dog, whose good heart shows through even as his body ages. For Jake puppy who makes us laugh and entertains us with his Marmaduke tendencies.

- For the new connections I’ve made to my community, my neighbors and the foods that nourish me this year.

- For the cold weather that is making it feel like the holidays.

- For the smell of fresh baked bread and steaming pies.

- For everyone that has touched my life and left me a better person for it.

I hope that you and yours are enjoying a wonderful day of good food, meaningful conversations and fun.