November Editor's Letter

How did we get to November? I can’t believe Thanksgiving is upon us, and the holiday season is knocking on the door.

For the past 18 years, my dear mother-in-law has prepared and hosted Thanksgiving. And, unlike the Thanksgiving dinners I ate as a youth, hers feature homemade dressing and cranberries in the shape of berries—not a can. We bring a pie (typically store bought) and my husband’s pumpkin fudge, but that’s been the extent of my prepping for Thanksgiving dinner. That, my friends, is changing this year. My MIL is having surgery and will be out of commission for prepping the meal. As of the writing of this letter, it may fall upon my shoulders to plan/cook this year. Overland Park mom Laura McEachon’s article, “Thanksgiving Hacks,” will be a BIG help to me as I muddle my way through this daunting task. And as I am now a smart phone owner, the Thanksgiving apps article will come in handy, as well.

Speaking of that holiday that falls on the fourth Thursday of November, I’m reminded of all the things for which I am thankful. In addition to the usual suspects (family, home, health, friends), I want to give a special thanks this year to organ donors. This year marks the 15th anniversary of my brother’s heart transplant. While the donor family has wished to remain anonymous, I am so thankful for the gift they have given to our family.

Happy Thanksgiving, Kansas City! I am thankful for you, our readers!