Eat, Drink, Be Merry, and Give Thanks

The Thanksgiving Feast was held at the Ranch on Saturday, November 19,2011 and was attended by approximately 25 people. We feasted on turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, pasta salads, a wide variety of veggies, and a scrumptious array of desserts.
Several familiar faces were absent due to illness, family emergencies, births of grand babies, trips to warmer climates, promises that had to be fulfilled, and business but those that gathered remembered those Ranch family members who couldn't join us in the celebration of fellowship and Thanksgiving.
Immediately following the meal, we begin playing the Dirty Santa game. Showing up once again were the dreaded Christmas erasers. Tim picked those from the table, even though they weren't even disguised and immediately realized what it was without even opening it. Lynn took them from him when her turn came so they can be retired permanently, never to be seen again. Beulah got the bottle of Mudslide and Todd paraded around in his silk Santa shirt. Another popular gift was the sign that said, "Kiss me, I Am Drunk". Ray Ray became the proud owner of this gift. As usual, there were bottles of wine to be fought over, tools to tinker with, bags to be bargained for, a flashlight that was fit for us all, sample bottles of alcohol that would please the most discerning palate, and a handmade gumball machine that Lynn coerced Craig into gifting to her. For the first time ever, not one candle illuminated the selection of gifts.
After the food and games, all members pitched in to get the chairs in, the umbrellas down, and the kitchen cleaned to prepare for the next event in January,,a chili cook off.
As we gathered together to eat, drink and be merry, we gave thanks for our friendships, our Ranch family and the fun we always have when we are celebrating together. We can only hope that our OWN family holiday gatherings will be as much fun. Happy Thanksgiving to ALL.