Thanksgiving stands as a uniquely American holiday, an emblem of both cultural heritage and personal traditions. Originating from historical roots and reflecting a spirit of friendship and collaboration, Thanksgiving has grown to symbolize a tapestry of American culture, where traditions and shared values intertwine to create a unique and heartfelt celebration. Each year, as autumn paints the Northern Arizona landscapes with vibrant hues, families and friends gather to celebrate this special occasion. It's a moment that beckons everyone back to their roots, to the warmth of familiar faces and cherished traditions. It's a time that transcends mere feasting; it embodies the spirit of gratitude, community, and familial bonds. In this celebration, there is an unspoken acknowledgment of the past, a joyful embrace of the present, and an optimistic gaze towards the future. It's a day where differences are set aside and the focus is on what truly matters: being together and giving thanks for the myriad blessings. (We hope!)

Thanksgiving is a culinary canvas where everyone's favorite dish finds a place at the table. From the golden, crispy-skinned turkey at the center to the rich, creamy mashed potatoes, each dish is a story, a tradition, or a cherished memory. Some relish the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, while others can't wait to dig into the savory stuffing. Each bite is a delightful mix of tastes and textures. The joy of the holiday is often found in these favorite foods, be it the green bean casserole passed down from generation to generation or the apple pie with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese that marks the perfect end to the feast. It's a day where diets are out the door and personal tastes are celebrated, creating a spread as diverse and unique as the people gathered around it. 

This now brings us to my favorite Thanksgiving food, a dish that holds a special place in my heart: the curried baked fruit my grandmother used to make. God rest her soul, Gladys Muckley, affectionately known as "Gammy," crafted the most divine baked curry fruit. Her unique blend typically featured pineapple, pears, and cherries, creating a harmonious medley that always amazed me. It was a culinary wonder how the boldness of curry could seamlessly meld with the natural sweetness of the fruit to produce something so exquisitely delicious. As it baked to perfection, its tantalizing aroma would permeate every corner of the house, becoming as much a part of our Thanksgiving tradition as the turkey itself. This dish was not just a testament to Gammy's culinary skills but a cherished memory that flavored each Thanksgiving with love and nostalgia.

As we gather around the Thanksgiving table, adorned with everyone's favorite dishes, we are reminded of the true essence of this American tradition. Thanksgiving is more than a day for feasting; it's a time to express our gratitude for the abundance in our lives, the people who surround us, and those who have passed on yet continue to shape who we are. It's a moment to acknowledge the rich tapestry of our individual experiences and the collective journey that weaves us together as a nation. In honoring traditions like Gammy’s curried fruit, we celebrate not just the culinary heritage but also the memories and values imparted by loved ones. Their influence lingers in every laugh, story, and shared meal, knitting us closer. This Thanksgiving, as we revel in the joy of togetherness and the warmth of cherished memories, let us take a moment to give thanks for the past that has shaped us, the present that enriches us, and the future that beckons with hope and possibility. In this celebration, we find a profound sense of gratitude for the journey, the lessons, and the love that define our lives. We sincerely hope you have a wonderful thanksgiving, from the Lyons family to yours.