Giving of Thanks in 2012

Turkey, and mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce, oh my! Thanksgiving is approaching with great rapidity, and if you are looking for something a bit different than the usual holiday get-together, consider some of the following events: “On December 4, 1619, a group of 38 settlers, led by Captain John Woodlief, arrived at Berkeley Plantation in Virginia, from Bristol, England. On the banks of the James River the Englishmen proclaimed ‘We ordaine that the day of our ship’s arrival at the place assigned for plantacon, in the land of Virginia, shall be yearly and perpetually keept holy as a day of Thanksgiving to Almighty God’” (Virginia Thanksgiving Festival.) In keeping with the tradition of this first official Thanksgiving, you too can celebrate at the very same site where these travelers first held their own feast—Berkeley Plantation. On November 4, 2012, delight in a day of food and drink, games, historic costumes, tribal dancers, and parades at the Virginia Thanksgiving Festival. But that, my dear reader, is not the only celebration of so-called “Turkey Day” in which you can partake. On November 22, 2012, enjoy a Decadent Thanksgiving Feast at BBAV member Cooper’s Landing Inn, or indulge in the 7^th Annual Thanksgiving Feast at Holladay House. And now, I leave you with a Thanksgiving blessing: “May your stuffing be tasty, May your turkey plump, May your potatoes and gravy Have nary a lump. May your yams be delicious And your pies take the prize, And may your Thanksgiving dinner Stay off your thighs!” –Anonymous By Tara Stoll