Relations Near and Far

Our first snowless Christmas in Florida, Pepere introduced us to turduken. A massive undertaking; he planned, prepared and cooked for weeks. Then seven years ago, my sister-in-law, for my brother's 40th invited a chef into their home, along with the rest of the family, to prepare a feast; a turduken was mentioned. But due to time constraints, (Unlike the family, the chef was not into a sleepover...) other fanciful dishes were prepared.

But the turduken seed was sown. That following Thanksgiving, two weeks later, was the first of the annual trifectas. The entire process videotaped from initial incision to service. Where now, we resort to a few well placed photos to remember the event. And yes, 50 year olds still play with their food...

As we gathered Wednesday, and then feasted on Thursday, I couldn't help but smile for the family that was present, but also while remembering those unable to be with us. Nana would have been proud. Instead of using a peanut butter bucket and soup ladle, her punch was served from a very fancy bowl.

See, Nana, we are getting better with age -- just like the punch.