Thanksgiving day-first step in US assimilation

For all of us who immigrated to the United States, just about everyone, Thanksgiving day is the primary and most unambiguous step in the  process of assimilation. Family, religious and cultural values resonate with us all. Most of us refer to it as, El Dia de Dar Gracias, a day to give thanks.

Like the majority of Americans, we are well aware that one day is not enough to give thanks for the blessings that we are fortunate to enjoy. However, it is a day to be together as family and friends and to express our goodwill to one another and to renew within ourselves an appreciation for our blessings. Again, this year, on this very special day, we gathered our family and friends to coordinate our dinner plans and menu.

Niko, our grandson, and I were in charge of  cooking the turkey  Here he is injecting our secret,
aromatic fusion made with herbs and spices. We also made an emulsion for basting our bird.

The left is a tray of our  juicy turkey prepared by yours truly with assistance from Niko.
  On the right two oven savory baked chickens prepared by our son little Dave. 

My wife used a recipe from her  great-grandmother who brought it to California on a covered wagon from Arizona in the late 1800. This savory delight is the first one to be devoured by everyone.

Niko, not wanting to be outdone, wanted to do more than baste the turkey. He was
 commissioned the task of making buttery mashed potatoes with cheese... they turned out great!

My brother-in-law Paul, to give gastronomic variety to our menu, went back to his southern roots and prepared his signature dishes: etoufée and gumbo... hello!

Our menu was completed with the usual trimmings of cranberry sauce, hot buttered rolls, wonderful pies and assortment libations. But most of all with the company of family and friends.

We are thankful for good health and friendship, and the teachings of our ancestors. Damos gracias for renewing our spirit and for recognizing that we have many good things because others before us have given us love and protection, care and knowledge. We give thanks...