This coming Thursday, Thanksgiving Day, when you sit down to a fabulous meal with family and friend remember to give thanks for everything near and dear to you.

This year will be a little different for my family, and it really makes me sad.

Through the years we have come accustomed to going to my parent’s house for Thanksgiving dinner.

This is one of the few times a year that I, my brother, sister and our families get to all be together and catch-up on everything that we’ve been missing.

Well this year my brother and sister have made other plans. They will be spending Thanksgiving with their in-laws -which is understandable- being that they haven’t in several years, but the idea still upsets me.

My mom seems be handling the news ok, but I know she is just putting up a good front - trying not to make them feel too bad about the whole thing.

I figured I would give my mom a break from cooking, so I decided to host this years’ holiday dinner at my house.

I am hoping that once the cooking is done, the day will turn out to be a quiet and relaxing one spent with my husband, kids and parents.

We could really use some down time. I’m sure all of you can agree with me on that one!

I would like to take this time to wish everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

May God bless you and your families this holiday season.

Sincerely,

Pam Venissat,

Lifestyles Editor