“I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving”
‭Psalm‬ ‭69‬:‭30

Today we honor all the brave men and women who have sacrificed to serve our country and for all who paid the ultimate price for freedom.  I am proud to be the daughter of a Korean War veteran.  Read my Daddy’s story here: A Living Legacy.

With the holidays approaching, and memories coming back alive from years past, many people find themselves stuck between two emotions: bitter or sweet.

Bitter because things are not what they once were on that Thursday in November because of loved ones who have passed.

Sweet because of the treasured memories of their presence, their food, and their life-giving spirit.

So, how do we decide which way we will approach the holidays?

Yesterday in Gratitude Changes Attitude, we opened the week with how perspective changes things.  I do have a personal story to share, if you will let me…

In 2007, our family Thanksgiving was suddenly different than it had ever been.  Our holidays had always been celebrated at my parents’ home–the house I grew up in.  The preparations began weeks in advance.  To say that my Mother was the best Southern cook would be an understatement!  Her dressing (we don’t say “stuffing” in our neck of the woods) is by far the best that I have ever eaten!!  And let me tell you–her menu for Thanksgiving was extensive!!  Turkey, dressing, and giblet gravy were always a given–but there would always be six or seven side dishes: congealed salads, homemade rolls, pies, and at least one cake!

But on Thanksgiving 2007, we found ourselves in a very different set of circumstances.  For the first time ever, I would now be responsible for preparing the entire meal.  My mother passed away unexpectedly in April, just seven months shy of Thanksgiving of that year.  I was overwhelmed with emotions, to say the least.  To even attempt to make her dressing and to duplicate all of her treasured recipes that our family associated with the celebration was going to be impossible.  I found myself having to make a choice:  would the holidays be a bitter time for me and my family?  Or would it be a sweet time for us?  Although we were sad, we decided that she would want us to celebrate the goodness of God and to be thankful for His blessings–we all chose gratitude!  By God’s grace, I managed to host that first Thanksgiving for my family without my Mother.  The holidays continue to be a sweet time for our family, even in my Mother’s much-felt absence.

(I should add that on that Thanksgiving in 2007, my Daddy gave me the highest compliment after we finished eating– he said, “the dressing tasted just like Nanny’s”!!!)  

Today’s tablescape lends itself to the holidays, and it is my hope that we all approach the upcoming season with a true heart of Thanksgiving!

I can’t even remember when I purchased the Johnson Brothers “willow” pattern–maybe thirty-five years ago?  After all these years, it still makes a statement!

Tablecloth is a white Indian cotton.  The cobalt blue chargers are a forever favorite that I found through Horchow (online).  The stemware was also a Horchow find.  The cobalt glasses were spied at Tuesday Morning several years ago.

The blue willow pattern has an interesting folklore. If time permits, you might want to read about the romantic tragedy of the scene depicted on each piece!

I do love the bright orange pumpkins mixed with the crisp blue and white!

The pewter napkin rings/place card holders were a gift from my beautiful niece, Hannah!

The sterling engraved demitasse spoons were given to me by my friend, Patti.  I recently featured her home here: Everyday Living at Patti’s & Roadtrippin’ and Tablescapin’

This is really a simple tablescape!  No purchases necessary–I had everything on hand.  I encourage you to look around your home & outdoors with an anticipating eye to see all the things that can be used for your table!  It does not have to be expensive, just make it warm and inviting for those that you love!

As always, thank you for sharing in our everyday living!! We love your comments and read every one!!

“Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever!”
Psalm‬ ‭106‬:‭1

Linking with Pieced Pastimes, It’s Overflowing, Be Different Act Normal, Silver Pennies , By Stephanie Lynn, Life on Lakeshore Drive, Thoughts From Alice, Creatively Living, Rustic-Refined, Pink When, Mod Vintage Life, Coastal Charm, The Dedicated House, Dwellings-Heart of Your Home, Savvy Southern Style, French Country Cottage, From My Front Porch To Yours, Stone Gable, Confessions of a Plate Addict, Worthing Court, Between Naps on the Porch, Cedar Hill Farmhouse, A Stroll Thru Life, The Style Sisters, The Charm of Home, The Winthrop Chronicles, Cornerstone Confessions, A Delightsome Life, Imparting Grace, Craftberry Bush, Posed Perfection, Katherines Corner, The Vintage Farmhouse,  My Romantic Home, Chic On A Shoestring Decorating, Rooted In Thyme, Share Your Cup