Relief Society Thanksgiving Celebration

On Thursday, November 17th, we had a meeting to celebrate Thanksgiving.

We began with an inspirational message by Debbie Marcantano that stressed cultivating an "attitude of gratitude." We watched a video of people saying what they were thankful for and realized that we all have much to be grateful for.

Ginny Woodworth made us some chutney and relish that she put in adorable little mason jars for us to take home. This is a recipe that has been in her family for many years.

We then moved on to the Scout Room, where Jane Rhodes had decorated 3 tables in different styles for the holiday meal.

The first was a rustic, outdoorsy kind of look that featured deliciously scented pinecones placed in a pile on earthenware plates. There were little bark place card holders and a burlap runner that completed the earthy statement.

Next, there was the classic table, which was adorned with multicolored flowers in low vases and a string of lights, making it magically bright. There were miniature pear-shaped candles and a bright tablecloth to enhance this beautiful table setting.

And last, there was the modern table, incorporating the latest trends in decorating, with a chevron tablecloth and a monochromatic tabletop display of white flowers in white vases. At this table there was a Polaroid camera for those seated here to use. The place cards were whimsical black mustaches that made for great photos.

There was also a children's table, with a brown paper "tablecloth" with drawn-on place setting and checklists for those seated at the table to complete.

Jane brought many gifts for us - we each got a candle - either a pumpkin or a pear. There were coloring sheets that she uses every year for us to give to our children, and cute turkey place cards. She got many of these cute items on etsy, which is an online handmade gift shop.

Now on to the food! This was a feast that was beyond compare. I'll start by describing the water. Even the water was special! It was served in a beautiful deep red punch bowl. In the bowl was a ring of ice that was infused with orange and lemon slices. This is made by putting water, orange and lemon slices in a bundt pan and freezing it. Then the ring was placed in the bowl and water was poured over it. The result was water that stayed cold and tasted delicious.

There was a delicious salad with many sweet and savory tastes from Crystal Ainge, who also provided us with the yummy stuffing. It was made from two different kinds of bread and was very moist.

The turkey was made by Michelle Ainge, and she prepared it in an oven bag. She said that it was so easy and it was certainly very moist and tasty. Michelle also made the delicious gravy.

Debbie Marcantano made the sweet potato casserole. This was really yummy - almost like dessert. The recipe for this casserole is on the main page of this blog (under side dishes).

Julie Marriott made the delicious rolls and Jenny Bluhm made the potatoes, which were infused with cream cheese, sour cream and onion salt.

Julia Blake made a couple of delectable pumpkin desserts and Darsi Dowling made some yummy brownie cupcakes.

After we had all eaten ourselves silly, it was time to go.

We are grateful to our presenter, Jane Rhodes and to Debbie Marcantano for our inspiring message. We also want to thank Ginny Woodworth and everyone who provided the food for this wonderful event. It was truly just what we needed to help us get ready for our own Thanksgiving celebrations!