Thanksgiving Menu

Then .. 1906

The menu was diverse. She worked hard, cooking for the clan. They had expectations, promises had been made all year; it was up to her to keep them, regardless of the challenges she was facing.

The menu was beautiful. Simple in so many ways, but elegant none the less, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Starting out with Oyster Soup with Crisp Crackers
Of course there would be Celery and Salted Almonds
The dinner table adorned with Roast Stuffed Turkey
Accompanied with; Giblet Gravy, Cranberry Jelly, Mashed Potatoes, Onions in Cream, Fresh Turnips and Chicken Pie.
Papa had requested Thanksgiving Pudding and Sterling Sauce. His favorites.
For the neighbor she added Mince, Apple and Squash Pie's with Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream and her special Fancy Cakes.
The day wouldn't be complete without the Fruit, Nuts and Bonbons.
Still she would serve Crackers and Cheese with her almost famous After-Dinner Coffee's.

The men would retire with their Brandy and Cigars. The children would nap on any available surface. The women would gather, as they always did … talking about the day, comparing failed recipes, preparing each other for the hard winter to come – always a comfort to one another, they could count on each other. This they knew.

Yes, the day was always a success; the work well worth it.

She would be fifty in the spring, she had taught many to do what she did, just as Mary had taught her. She had so much more to do, she knew this, lives to impact. But there was an ache in her bones, a chill that never seemed to diminish.

So much to do … yes, she would make it to fifty. It was required of her.