Thanksgiving 2020 is a day filled with warmth, nostalgia, and a sprinkle of bittersweet reflection. As the sun began to rise on today on this chilly November morning, I found myself waking up at 5:30 AM, a time I usually reserve for dreams and cozy blankets. I don’t know why, but I love sleeping in on my days off. But this year was different. I was up early, not for work or obligations, but to spend precious moments in the kitchen with my mother, preparing a feast that would bring our family together, even if just in spirit.
The early morning light streamed through the kitchen window as we donned we contemplated and debated what to make first. There’s something magical about cooking with someone you love, especially when that someone is your mother. We chatted and laughed, reminiscing about past Thanksgivings while chopping vegetables and stirring pots. It felt nostalgic, a comforting reminder of the years that gone by when the kitchen was filled with the sounds of family and the aroma of delicious food.
One of the highlights of our Thanksgiving spread was my mother’s famous broccoli salad. I’ve tried many variations over the years, but none compare to hers. The combination of crisp broccoli, sweet raisins, crunchy sunflower seeds, and that creamy savory yet sweet dressing is simply unbeatable. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and I can’t imagine a Thanksgiving without it.
And then there’s her legendary strawberry pretzel salad. This dessert is a masterpiece—layers of creamy filling, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy pretzel crust that is both savory and sweet that creates a perfect balance. Every bite is a reminder of the joy that food can bring, especially when shared with loved ones.
This year, however, the backdrop of our Thanksgiving was tinged with the sadness of the ongoing pandemic. The world outside felt heavy, filled with uncertainty and loss. Many families were separated and gatherings were smaller than usual. It was a stark reminder of how fragile life can be and how important it is to cherish the moments we have now with those we love.
As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude wash over me. I was thankful for my mother, for the time we spent together, and for the food that nourished not just our bodies, but our souls. In a year that has been so challenging, being surrounded by family, even in a small way, felt like a precious gift.
Thanksgiving 2020 may have looked different from years past, but today was filled with love, reflection, and gratitude. I am thankful for my family, for the laughter we share, and for the memories we create. As we move forward, I hope to carry this spirit of gratitude with me, embracing the beauty of life and the connections we hold dear forever.
Happy Thanksgiving to all! May we continue to find joy and thankfulness in the little things, even during the toughest of times.
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