Ever since Hallie found out she was leaving just before Thanksgiving she started campaigning for us to put up Christmas early so she could enjoy it before she left. I’ve never put up Christmas before Thanksgiving – not how I roll. Even putting it up the day after Thanksgiving I’m always ready to tear it down by the time Christmas rolls around. And truthfully I probably would have done it for her but this is naturally my busiest season for work and then add to that final mission prep and family time and putting up Christmas never made the priority list.
When Hallie realized Christmas wasn’t coming early, she started a new campaign – an early Thanksgiving dinner. I am not a food person and I think Thanksgiving dinner is too much work on Thanksgiving, let alone an early Thanksgiving in addition to regular Thanksgiving. But Hallie was persistent.
One of the most asked questions, when people find out when she leaves, is if we’ll be hosting an early Thanksgiving with her. We were at Brainfood last week and I had everyone trying to talk me into it – by the end of our service, I had committed to cooking the full meal deal three days later on Sunday when she was to be set apart.
An older gentleman in our neighborhood who was one of the most vocal pushing for an early Thanksgiving sent me a text the next morning. “Hi Kara. My contribution to the Hallie pre Thanksgiving Dinner is I am going to be bringing you over a large pumpkin pie tomorrow. That’s the least I can do. Shoot me now or shoot me later. Thanks!”
It was just the push I needed. Right after Hallie was set apart as a full-time missionary, we sat at the table as a family with both Steve’s parents and my parents and we feasted (My boys are getting to an age where they can throw down so much food!) Turkey, rolls, potatoes, stuffing (a tasty recipe made with croissants), salad and pie!
I was filled with gratitude on so many levels.
Of course, the obvious, Hallie choosing to serve a mission and the time we’ve spent together in her preparation – we’ve had some special time. I was grateful for the people surrounding me at the table. Steve, who balances me in more ways than one and always carries me this time of year. All of our children under one roof – laughing and enjoying each other. My parents, who I adore and haven’t sat at a Thanksgiving dinner with since before Hallie was born. And Steve’s parents who continue to lead by example even as they grow older.
I didn’t need the early Thanksgiving for the food (although Hallie did), I needed it to gather with those closest to me and feel of their love.
Happy pre-Thanksgiving.
