Happy Thanksgiving, Y'all.

I got the turkey in the oven now. As I was cleaning him/her, and rubbing it down with my potion of paprika, salt and pepper, and peanut oil, I thought I might ask someone else to do this job next time. I'll buy the turkey, or shoot it (whatever), I just don't want to fool with this odious task. I don't eat turkey. I have been severely fleet-footed. I'll get over it.

At last count, there will be 33-4 people at my house today. Katie is bringing a turkey, as well as Crown Royal for old fashions, oyster stuffing, a tapenade appetizer, salad, a couple of loaves of bread. That Katie. She's having the X-mas dinner at her house. Allright, I'll make a turkey then too, but that's the last one. I mean it. I don't care how good you all say my turkey is. I'll hand over my secrets very easily. I bake with Love. That's it. Love, and paprika, salt and pepper, and peanut oil rubbed all over it.

We ate at R&O's last night. My shrimp po-boy was absolutely scrumptious. They make the very best in the world and I hadn't had one since before the doggone hurricane. They were so very close to the 17th street canal, but the first breach that flooded N.O. was on the other side of the canal. Many of their employees lost homes, thus their operations are still not up to their pre-hurricane days. Limited menu, limited hours, and on the back of the menu is a story asking for patience with the way things are running now. My children were having the time of their lives at Elizabeth's - playing with Patrick, and the Soules while we dined. How cool was that?!!

My children love being with their cousins. We had Shelby since Sunday evening. Every night they'd ask can she spend another night. I had to work, so Aaron was in charge. It worked out very well. David is starting his long days at work - holiday jewelry sales are up. Matthew was working with his Grandfather doing lawn maintenance, so Shelby became Julia's unofficial little sister. We loved having her. She is such an easy guest and she and Julia entertain each other all day and night. They have to be fussed at for laughing too much, or too loud sometimes.

I wish everyboy a joyful day. Now that the pecan pie is baked, the turkey is baking, I shall start my day with a walk in the woods. Here is a picture of them...