Gobble, Gobble!

Happy Turkey day everyone!

As I woke up this morning, memories of thanksgivings passed flooded my mind…Cooking the night before, early dinners, yielding to the soporific effect of turkey, laughing at/with friends and family, having one more piece of pumpkin pie to sober up, and of course jello shots.

Everyone has a thanksgiving specialty. In my family: Kim brings the sweet potato dressing; Denise makes the turkey; Polly brings the squash casserole; my mom makes the salad; and Mimi makes 10 pecan and pumpkin pies. My holiday staple is jello shots. For the past few years I have provided my family with trays of tasty, sugar-free, 2oz, multi-flavored, ice-breakers. For example, one layer could be coconut rum and lime jello topped off with another layer of raspberry vodka and cranberry jello, or perhaps chopped up fruit and matching liquor flavors; peach schnapps, peach jello, mixed with fresh peaches. Ahhh, the little things that amuse me. And to tell you the truth, there is virtually no polite way to take a jello shot. Many a laugh has been had watching usually conservative people try to suck jello out of a little cup. I love my family.

This year, I have realized that I am enjoying yet another unconventional thanksgiving. The weather has us rocking and rolling here in Espirito Santo. Alex and I have just finished our brunch of bacon, black beans, trigger and eggs. A far cry from the typical American holiday fare, wouldn’t you say? Our next mission is to get someone in our anchorage to part with a little rum!

My last log was super whiney, and I’d like to take advantage of today’s ritual. I am so grateful it’s silly. My dad has cemented his position as my hero. My mom may just be the most positive person on the planet. My sister makes me so proud it’s hard not to cry when I think about her. And our good buddy Alex has been a most unexpected inspiration. Can I get an Amen?

Ready for some cheese? I am truly grateful for you; the people that fuel his dream and motivate him to press on even when the engine fights back…Thank you.

I find myself in a truly amazing, unique, unpredictable and exciting place in my life. I have met some fantastic eccentric people and have seen some beautiful places. And you know what the best thing is? My journey is just beginning.

Cheers to friends and family!

Cassie