A Florida Thanksgiving

Seeing as how I am a week late in posting my Thanksgiving story for my blog, I have opted to make it this week’s post. I believe that once the Thanksgiving season rolls around, the feeling of being thankful and joyous tends to follow you through Christmas and the New Year.

So, even though my Thanksgiving was spent at home this year, I couldn’t help but recollect my time spent in Destin, Florida last year. The bitter cold here in Arkansas had me longing for the days spent in Florida where, although it was still a bit chilly, the warm sunshine and tall palm trees provided the perfect setting for Thanksgiving.

If you have ever been to Florida, it is hard to deny that Destin is probably one of the most beautiful places in the state. It’s white, soft, bury-your-toes type of sand make for the most relaxing day on the beach, while dozens of shopping areas allow you to open your wallets and drench yourself in souvenir t-shirts, sunglasses, and beach towels. Granted, most shops are a bit on the “touristy” side; however, in some areas, you can find name brand stores with “quality” shopping.

Of course, one of “Destin’s” hidden treasures is visiting Seaside, Florida; a cozy little town that holds a variety of shops, beachside grills, and yes, the Truman House. You see, part of The Truman Show was filmed in Seaside, Florida and the actual Truman House is settled right on Natchez Street. Because it is someone’s house, we couldn’t go through it; however, we settled for taking a nice little drive past the residence.

During our time spent in Destin, not only did we visit the beach, which was just a short walk away from where we were staying, but we lounged by the pool, shopped, and even took in a movie. I have to admit, if you travel to Destin, some of the nicest condos you can stay in are the ones at Hidden Dunes Beach and Tennis Resort. For five people, our condo consisted of a kitchen, living room, two bedrooms, a loft, and three bathrooms. Oh and I forgot to mention the lovely little patio/balcony that overlooked the pool area.

One of the neatest things about Hidden Dunes is that they have “neighborhood” cats. If you’re not a cat lover, don’t worry, they aren’t everywhere. However, I must say, going down to the hot tub each night, one of the neighborly cats tended to stroll along the wall ledge and grace us with her company. (I love cats so this was not an issue for me)

Once Thanksgiving Day arrived, naturally, we clicked the TV on to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. (I’m convinced that it is not an actual Thanksgiving unless I watch it) Of course, my mouth continued to water all morning long and the smells of roasted turkey, dressing, hot pumpkin pie, oozing sweet potatoes, creamy gravy, and my favorite, deliciously good deviled eggs, filtered through the air. Needless to say, the second the food hit the table, it was a showdown between my stomach and the spread.

Never have I ever been able to celebrate Thanksgiving in a sunny and warm climate. I have to say, it was pretty awesome. It was something we had always talked about doing but because of grandparents, we decided it was necessary that we spend our holidays at home. Unfortunately, in November of 2008, my grandmother passed away. She was the last grandparent to go. As much as I enjoyed spending Thanksgiving in a warm and sunny climate, I would have graciously taken the bitter cold weather of Arkansas, if it meant getting to spend another holiday with my grandmother.

Her chicken and dumplings grace our Thanksgiving and Christmas table every single year and in the two years she has been gone, my mom and aunt still continue to the tradition. However, there’s always something about a grandmother’s touch that makes it all the more special. I guess this year, spending my Thanksgiving at home got me to thinking just how thankful I am for the memories and traditions that continue in my family. Even though our loved ones have gone, they’re memories continue to live on in those of us who choose to remember and for that, I am so grateful.

P.S. Sorry there are no pictures this time!!!! I wanted to get this posted and I didn't have time :(