Happy Thanksgiving - a holiday worthy of gratitude.

If you are crazy about pumpkin like I am this is a pretty exciting time of year. I love pumpkin 'spice' but also just pumpkin. Not only do I love how they look but I love them in soup, ice cream, carrot cake, pancakes, ravioli and of course --- pie!
 TIP: Pumpkin soup with a dash of orange and curry spice is so easy and delicious it makes me wonder why I don't make it all year.
 Of course certain things are synonymous with specific holidays and evoke fond memories. Reserving those rituals for these special times is what makes them so feel so magical.
The timing of Thanksgiving couldn't be more perfect too. It distracts us from mourning the loss of summer. This holiday brings back the idea of cosy, warm and comforting colours , decor and of course 'comfort food'. It re-introduces us back to nesting.  I secretly look forward to this rare opportunity to indulge in creamy mash potatoes. Preferably ones that someone else made! 

Locally, one of my favourite places to get pumpkins, gourds and squash is Good Family Farm just outside of Kitchener on Bridge Street. It only takes a quick drive to check them out!  http://goodpumpkins.com/products/

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” ~ John F. Kennedy

Did you know?
Originally the concept was of course, to give thanks for the  harvest season but since most of us don't grow our own food,  the tradition  now focusses simply on getting together with family and eating a large turkey dinner topped off with a big helping of pumpkin pie.  Turkey coma is real folks!
Believe it or not though, the first Thanksgiving holiday  in Canada was in 1872 to celebrate the recovery of the Prince of Wales from illness. After 1879 the celebrations were held every year but not always in October, they were sometimes held in November. 

TIP: Get creative with white pumpkins and a gold spray can! Its a great way to create an inviting porch and table centrepiece. Have fun with it! 
Lastly, as we gather our family and friends together, lets not forget that there are many who may be stressed about providing a holiday table worthy of gratitude. Consider donating to Feed Ontario to help fill the bellies of young children in our Province.  https://feedontario.ca