Happy Thanksgiving + Last Minute Ideas

I've been having a hard time trying to sort out what I wanted to make for our Thanksgiving meal and I couldn't figure out why.  I finally realized it's because my mental calendar hasn't caught up and I am still stuck at the beginning of November.  I guess it didn't feel like Thanksgiving so my brain wouldn't let me plan for it.

This seems to be a recurring theme this past year.  Time rushes by but my brain can't quite keep up.  I suppose it's a combination of getting older and slowly but surely launching a small business.  Even though I would have liked more opportunities to slow down a bit and enjoy the chaos, I can't say that I would change anything about this past year.  There have been a lot of milestones that I am very thankful for.  There were ones that were unexpected, and others that at times seemed as if they would never happen.  I don't know that any of them would have ever happened without the continual and unfailing support and love from my family.  For them I am forever thankful and grateful.      

If you are feeling stuck or uninspired, not to worry.  I've got a lovely collection of ideas listed below from the archives.  Whatever you decide to make, and however you decide to celebrate, here's hoping it's a wonderful day full of thanks, satisfied tummies, and that extra slice of pie.  Happy Thanksgiving :)

- For an easy but tasty side salad, try the shredded brussel sprout salad

- If you want an update for the typical broccoli cheese casserole, try the cheesy baked grains with caramelized shallots and add some fresh steamed broccoli

- Ditch the boring dinner rolls and try these gluten free/grain free hazelnut & lemon thyme muffins

- For a vegetarian/vegan main dish (or appetizer), try the stuffed portobello mushrooms with dandelion greens 

- The harvest apple & carrot loaf would make a lovely finish to your meal as well as a very special Thanksgiving breakfast

- The salted chocolate mousse is a nice raw/dairy free/grain free dessert option that will please any of your guests, especially those with dietary restrictions

- For a festive dessert, try the cranberry & pistachio bread pudding

- If you want a tasty (and easy) update for apple pie, try these baked apples with oats and chamomile and serve them with a bit of coconut cream or your favorite ice cream

- If you need a little detox after an indulgent holiday meal, try the beets & greens juice