As I set the table on Thanksgiving morning the stark reality of what this particular day’s table looks like settled into my gut. Not only was that table far less crowded due to pandemic precautions, ( our mothers and any extended family stayed home) … but the man who sat at the far end head of the table is no longer with us because of the same virus that keeps us apart. Dad wasn’t a church goer- but he took pride in saying grace before the big meal, and so it was his job each Thanksgiving. That moment was the hard one, and became a moment of silence instead.
Sending love from our house to all of yours, a hug to those who observed the empty seat, and for those who couldn’t join with their families in the usual traditions. May Grace and gratitude find us all in the days to come, there is truly so much to be thankful for 
Hugs to you, Karen.
My heart goes out to you.
I am sure it was a hard moment, Karen, and I am sorry. We spent the day by ourselves. John sleeps a lot but did get up for dinner. We spoke to all the kids here and there throughout the day. We have stayed pretty well isolated for fear of John getting Covid. Still no answers on his health issues.
Blessings to you and your family as you head towards Christmas- xo Diana
Sorry to hear about your father. My mother in law went to be with Jesus the day before Thanksgiving this year. Her body was tired. She was 93 and had lived by herself until November 8, talked to us 2 days before she died. A life well lived.
Hugs to you.
Hi Patti! Indeed a life well lived, something we all strive for – sending love to you and yours during this difficult holiday season.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. It’s a really strange time we are living in…everything is so different.
On a lighter note? My Dad, was not a church goer either and he was also responsible for saying grace. His saying was “Holy moses, holy ghost, the one who eats the fastest eats the most!” Needless to say, my very Catholic Polish/Ukrainian gramma was not impressed. lol.
We went from a Thanksgiving table(s) of 21 to five this year due to everyone’s comfort level is social distancing. I cried several times during the morning, feeling sorry for myself, feeling guilty for being selfish and spoiled, missing family members, etc. I cried because our son was missing out on our annual tradition of having all his friends and their families for “second shift” which Is when the teens and adults with bigger appetites clear away our leftovers.
We have all we need and ore than most and for that I am thankful and reflective.
We did have a very nice day, just different.
And I understand that empty space, it was so hard for me that we took the opportunity to join friends for a few years after we lost my father and grandfather (both ends of the table, hubby deferred to a side seat 🙂 out of his love and respect for them)