A Thanksgiving to remember

It wasn't the day. We had no turkey, no pies, no mashed potatoes. No over the River and through the woods. No grandmother's house either. No football. I think the menu was takeout fish stew. The backdrop was coconut trees and World Cup soccer. 

But it was the fact we were all together. Far away, but together. In Guarajuba. In fact, we were there almost a week, with the exceptions of excursions into the city of Salvador known for its Afro-Brazilian vibe. 

And then we went our separate ways. After a bout of food poisoning??, Margaret and Andrew headed home on Black Friday only to arrive the next day. That's when Annie and Sankar split off for an extra day in Salvador before Annie heads back. The rest of us returned to Brasilia for a few more days before Mary and I give Joe and Leonor some much needed rest after playing hosts for several weeks.  

We turned their home upside down displacing children from their rooms and disrupting routines. That meant loss of sleep for Joe and Leonor but they never complained. They shepherded us around and translated for us. They made all the arrangements. We sat back and enjoyed the ride. 

A couple of other notes. Rarely have I ever, ever been on a beach more secluded than Guarajuba. Just beautiful. 

We fell into routines quickly, jumping in the pool right off the front door before breakfast and heading over to the beach for lengthy playtimes. Then back to the pool There was even time for a nap and World Cup and trips to a playground with a trampoline. 

And a special thank you to one five year old Thomas who, as the eldest, did such a good job keeping his brother, sister and cousin happy and entertained.  

Not sure we'll ever have another Thanksgiving like this one which makes it so special. 

So sorry to hog all the ink about our holiday, but we couldn't even check in via phone or Tik Tok. And there weren't even any photos of your turkeys or pie spreads. But we can guess you were all together with your families and enjoying the day.