Giving thanks for memorable holiday meals

My Dad liked to tell friends he had eight children, each unique and special, but similar in that there were just two kinds of children at his dinner table — the fast and the hungry.

I was thinking about that bit of fatherly humor as we prepared for our Thanksgiving celebration this year, because there was a certain about of truth in Dad’s assertion most nights, but the Thanksgiving Day feasts of my childhood were always an exception.

I think Mom and Dad deserve credit and acknowledgment for providing a traditional holiday meal for 10 every holiday we shared.

I frequently hear friends talk about the challenges they face feeding four or five family members. I understand what that involves for many. It is no easy task. I listen to what they share, and think to myself they just don’t know how challenging meal preparation can be until they feed double the number of hungry mouths. And then I always find myself marveling at what my parents accomplished three times a day, day after day for so many years.

Holidays meals were always special at my family's house. Every dish was freshly made and there was plenty of food for all. The meals truly were feasts, particularly at Thanksgiving. Roast turkey was the meat, but all the traditional side dishes were present, too.

We enjoyed potatoes (mashed and sweet potatoes with baked topping), vegetables (at least two, but typically more), stuffing, gravy, bread and plenty of butter. And there was dessert. We enjoyed pie, pumpkin and apple, and other baked goods. Dad always made sure the adults enjoyed a variety of wines, beer and other drinks.

Some years cousins and other relatives joined us, and in time fiances and spouses took their seats at the gatherings. My parents always found a way to make certain each person received a full plate of food.

There was a lot of truth behind Dad’s joke about the fast and the hungry. Dining with a party of 10, including six boys, offers many valuable life lessons for young people.

We learned punctuality is its own reward. My parents frowned on tardiness and would not delay a meal. Hot dishes waited for no one, and you learned quickly that promptness frequently was rewarded with a hearty portion of food while tardiness was not.

We learned there really are times when it is better to listen than to speak. Conversation was always encouraged and welcomed at the table, but we learned that those who spent their time pontificating often missed out on second helpings. Pay attention to the business at hand, Dad always said.

We learned how to throw an elbow and how to deflect one, too. Offense is always as important as defense. That lesson was a true keeper and has served me well throughout life.

Thanksgiving Day is my favorite holiday because it is the one day in which we are encouraged to pause and reflect on the blessings we enjoy. It says it right in the name.

As Thanksgiving Day 2016 approaches, I find myself again giving thanks for the parents who provided me with many siblings and a great many lessons. I give thanks for the gifts my parents shared, their many sacrifices, and all they did to make certain their children enjoyed memorable holiday celebrations, the very best they could provide.

And I always give thanks for providing me the opportunity to develop elbows that remain fast and strong.

May God bless you and yours with a happy and memorable Thanksgiving Day celebration.

Email comments and questions to kbotterman@gmail.com. Thank you for reading.