A Thankful, Traditional, and Terrific Thanksgiving

A vegetarian Thanksgiving is just as thankful, traditional, and terrific as a Thanksgiving with a turkey as the centerpiece. But, for a non-vegetarian, I'm sure the thought of no-turkey seems very strange. When the boys were young, they had a pet tom-turkey who followed them everywhere (and sometimes attacked them!). Our family would joke that turkeys were safe at our house during the holidays. The turkeys always made it through traditional turkey holidays with full tummy's and the run of the coop! The last turkey I remember eating was when I was 5 years old and was celebrating a Canadian Christmas at my aunt's house. It was shortly after that holiday that my parents made the decision to completely engulf a vegetarian lifestyle for our family. Once that decision was made, there was no turning back. Back then (I won't say how long ago), it was not trendy or common to be a vegetarian like it is now-days. Holiday dinners have always been special --- and although the menu has varied somewhat, certain elements always remain the same. Would you like a peek at a vegetarian Thanksgiving menu? Here are some of our favorites holiday foods:

* Vegetarian 'turkey' slices (made from soy and gluten with wonderful flavorings) filled with bread stuffing and served with cranberry sauce or cashew or brown gravy

* Tofurky, a tofu loaf that's well seasoned and slices nicely; or a Cashew Loaf that's savory and delicious!

* Wild and brown rice pilaf

* Mashed potatoes and brown gravy

* Succotash of corn and lima beans and other cooked veggies

* Creamed Squash (from Grandpa's summer garden)

* A fruity gelled salad, veggie style (no gelatin though)

* Tossed salad with all the fixin's and salad dressings

* A tray of vegetables like carrots, celery, olives, pickles, baby tomatoes, cucumbers, broccoli, and more --- served with a healthy dip

* Whole wheat rolls with spreads like apple butter or blackberry jam

* Fresh apple cider or homemade grape juice

* Pumpkin pie

* Apple Crisp with Tofutti Ice Dream

It's off to Grandpa's on Thursday. I'm taking a gluten-free loaf, a huge green salad with dressings, and the pies. Everyone pitches in and many hands make light work. Blessings abound!