Grand Rapids Thanksgiving

The main difference between where we live and where to go to visit family in Michigan is water. To be fair, the more important thing is that we have family members to see and friends to visit. But water...there is more water in the state up north, and for that, we are thankful.



We were also thankful about so much more, on this Thanksgiving occasion.



Besides family, friends, and water, good health and a good life, we reminisced and celebrated our children's birthday – their 8th this year.



Each year, I marvel at how much life has happened in the last 8 years.  There is no doubt that the entrance of these two wonderous beings have enriched our lives (and so many others) in the short time frame. Life would not be the same without them, nor would we ever want to imagine it otherwise.



They make life complete.

Thanksgiving Pies

A Nantucket Cranberry Pie and a traditional Pumpkin Pie. Michigan, we are ready for you!
Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate this day. More on being thankful in a bit, as you know, the big (most thankful of all) day is almost here!

Maple-Syrup Cranberry Relish

Three ingredients together can bring your Thanksgiving Turkey dinner to a whole different level.

I love cranberries. I love maple syrup. A little sprinkle of orange zest, and you are done!




Maple-syrup Cranberry Relish

3 cups fresh whole cranberries
1 cup grade B maple syrup
Grated zest from one whole navel orange

Rinse the cranberries well. Put in a sauce pan, and add the two other ingredients. Bring to boil, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until all the cranberries have popped. The relish will start to look jam-like. Have a taste, add more syrup if you would like it to be sweeter. Otherwise, enjoy with your turkey, and stuffing!