I am cooking again, this year. I started this “tradition” of cooking on Thanksgiving several years ago, when I had moved to a new state and did not know anyone. As everyone knows, Thanksgiving is about getting to together with family and friends, watching the parade, watching the football games, and cooking a big dinner and eating it.
Since I was alone, then, and have been for several years, I decided the best way to “deal” with having no one around was to go through the motions. So, I first turn on the parade, then the games, and then I eat a dinner that I spent the morning cooking. The first time I did this, I realized that the “day alone” went by quicker and I actually enjoyed it.
I have since started to invite people who will be alone on Thanksgiving to eat with me. Over the years, I have had a few join me, and this year I have two neighbors coming.
I also have started the “prep” of my traditional menu a few days early so I do not have to rush with everything. I get the green bean casserole prepared to bake; I make the cornbread for the stuffing and mix it with the seasoned bread crumbs; I sauté the celery and onions for the stuffing and mix it with the cornbread mixture; I prepare the sweet potato casserole for baking later; and finally, I bake the pumpkin pie. This serves two purposes: I do not have to rush, and I spend a couple of days cooking As a result, they just zoom by. I have found that I enjoy doing this, even if I am the only guest.
Well, I better get going. I have the potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, and pie to prepare. As I said, I am having fun.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY, EVERYONE.