Howdy Freeholders!

I hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving and that you and yours are enjoying the holiday season as things really get kicked off.

Halloween was always a favorite of mine when I was growing up—what kid doesn’t like tons of free candy—but the older I get, the more I appreciate Thanksgiving.

There’s no presents, like Christmas, so no stress to figure out that perfect gift for that special someone, no worries (much) about snow covered driveways. The present you give is your time (if you’re hosting and cooking) and the payoff is that moment when you sit down at the the table and take a look around at all the people who make you who you are. If your parents and grandparents are there, you’re also seeing the people who made you who you are (literally!). Even in times of upheaval, like this year when the election is still fresh in everyone’s mind, we can all take a moment to enjoy a home cooked meal made with love and toast those who can’t be with us.

And let’s not forget the best part—falling asleep on the couch afterward because you were up at 6:30am with your mother-in-law working in the kitchen to make sure the choreographed meal comes off without a hitch. When both your parents and your spouses parents are there…yeah, no pressure at all.

Anyway, this cold, blustery Black Friday, I’m not doing any shopping, that’s already mostly done, thanks. I’m going to look at my clean kitchen, enjoy an adult beverage, and start a fire in the fire place. I think I’ll read tonight, and for that, I’m thankful.

Keep your heads down and your powder dry my friends. We live in interesting times.