Another windy, rainy day in Northwest Montana. Staying in my jammies today close to the fire, if the dogs will make room, that is 🙂

Yesterday I was thankful it was dry, though terribly windy. I started my holiday by bundling up and taking the kids down the back slope, where they ran and played and wore themselves out. I was lucky to get to watch a bald eagle playing in the wind. It was blowing so hard that he flew at a complete standstill, his wings motionless. He was close enough that I could see him looking around the valley, his white head clear against the sky. I know eagles have no instinct for thankfulness or appreciation but I know it was having fun and I was grateful for both of us.

Then I made my sweet potato casserole and was off to Cindy’s folks for dinner. A good time was had by all with all the traditional holiday dishes contributed by a lot of talented cooks. Cindy’s mother-in-law made a uniquely Montana dessert – huckleberry pie! Of course, I ate too much! The old stove had been fired up and radiated warmth for soon-to-be-devoured squash, my sweet potatoes and a green bean casserole. The group picture is a little blurry but still tells the story. I hope the holiday was equally blessed for all of you!