Apple Pie with Nana
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Being together with family, eating good food, and relaxing without the stress of gift giving is my favorite way to spend a day. Every year, ever since I was in preschool, the day before Thanksgiving held its own kind of magic.
The tradition began when I was 5 and my mother picked me up from school and brought me to my grandmother’s house to learn how to make her famous apple pie. This was a surprise to me and the first time I remember learning how to cook anything. My grandmother’s house was (and still is) a hub of activity. I was the first grandchild and my mother is the oldest of 5 so there were always aunts and uncles and friends coming in and out. I have always felt surrounded by love and unconditional support when I am in her home. I loved having her all to myself on that day and learning her kitchen secrets. Forty years later, I still know the recipe by heart and feel confident in my pie making skills.
Nowadays, this day-before-Thanksgiving tradition has evolved. Our family has since expanded quite a bit with cousins and cousins’ children and significant others. My aunt now hosts a very informal “day of baking” before Thanksgiving and all are welcome to stop by/drop in and stay as long as they would like. Sweatpants and pajamas are encouraged. There is a lot of laughter, sometimes games and drinks, and very little baking will actually take place. If you stay long enough pizza and some type of dessert will eventually be provided…Chinese food has also made an appearance over the years. My cousins and I look forward to this day every year.
This year, I will be picking my grandmother up on the way to my aunt’s house. I can’t wait to have her all to myself for the short ride there and back. She can relax, enjoy her family and be a part of the laughter and chaos without having to worry about baking or feeding anyone. For me, being with family and friends is what it’s all about and I feel very fortunate to have a family that I enjoy being around.
Whether your family is by blood, friendship or another affiliation, I wish you the very best Thanksgiving this year. May it be full of laughter, good food, friendship and gratitude.
