my traditions this time of year

I know I'm not alone when I say, "I hit the after Thanksgiving Day sales." Yes, it's a family tradition even though I'm the only one in my family that does it. I tell my husband, "I go for the socks." Yea, ah ha.... sure.... But I do! My daughter gets a dozen new pair every year and the boys, too, get a dozen white sports socks. Course you can get them just as cheap a couple days later and avoid the morning madness, but it's that madness that I love. I love getting up early, with sleep still in my eyes, my hair a mess and coffee in hand and head out. Most years my sweet husband will go with me, support me, because he loves me that much. (Personally.... I think he has just as much fun as I do although he would never admit it!) For me it's the beginning of the Holiday season, of which I absolutely am crazy about. I don't care what time it is. I don't care that there are hordes of people. It's just fun. It's festive. People are happy. Plus there's free coffee and donut holes! So there you have it. It's all about the donut holes!

Let's see.... My Thanksgiving dinner is usually typical of one my mother would have made. I've had the same menu for all of my adult life, with few deviations. It's definitely a traditional dinner; very simply made with way too much food. It's always a good day though. We spend most holidays with my ex-husband and his wife. It hasn't always been this way, but we became friends after the divorce and it's good for the kids. This year Soapy asked to host dinner, which is a first. It should be a good day.

Here's the recipe for one of my traditional salads I serve on Thanksgiving Day. It's a recipe passed down from my mom, so holds a special place in my heart especially this time of year. She passed away two days before Thanksgiving 11 years ago.... This is a very sweet salad. Very delicious.

Carrot Salad

6 cups (about 4#) carrots, cut in 1" pieces, slightly cooked (until just crisp tender)
1 white onion, sliced
1 green pepper, sliced
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp prepared mustard
1 tsp worcestershire
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup oil
1 can tomato soup

Mix all ingredients and pour over HOT carrots. Cool.

This is such a good salad and even if you don't care for carrots will find this a refreshing salad. Have a joyful day!