I was really undecided about what to do for Thanksgiving this year. Part of me wanted to pretend like it wasn’t happening. I almost stayed in Charlotte and planned to take friends up on offers to celebrate with them but I made a last minute decision to drive to Georgia to be with my family. Thanksgiving is usually my favorite holiday of the year and I so look forward to planning and cooking the dinner. It was different this time around but in the end I see and feel that it was the best thing to do to get out of Charlotte and with family.

Sullie and I got on the road at 10 a.m. and arrived in Milledgeville around 1:30 p.m. Due to last minute packing and preparations, I was unable to get my annual “workout before you pigout” in but my body was thankful for the rest.

My dad had the Big Green Egg going and the turkey cooking. He’s done the turkey on the egg for years now and has it down to a perfect science. Always juicy and with just the right amount of smoke flavor.

My grandmother was happy to see me after dropping hints for weeks that she would love for me to be here for Thanksgiving. 😉

I got busy helping in the kitchen to put the finishing touches on everything. Dad’s stuffing.

Roasted brussels sprouts.

Roasted carrots, parsnips and potatoes.

The turkey (white meat platter…I’ve made the definite declaration that I prefer dark meat).

My plate…turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes, brussels sprouts and roasted carrots and parsnips. I also had a side dish of greens with bacon and seconds on the turkey and stuffing.

My dad made his favorite apple cranberry pie. He is an accomplished baker in addition to his grill mastery.

Lots of layers of apples and fresh cranberries and a super thick and flaky crust.

I made a pumpkin ginger cheesecake pie and was pleased with how it turned out. I liked it because it was lighter than a cheesecake and very pumpkin-y. I liked the inclusion of chopped crystalized ginger.

My dessert plate…pie and carrot cake (<— my mom made carrot cake…I LOVE!).

It was nice to have the distraction on my nieces today. I don’t get to see them often so it was great to spend time with them. And they are just so stinking cute. Lots of baby passing around happened.

Along with yoga lessons…down dog, dancer, tree, airplane, headstands.

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope it’s been a wonderful day for everyone full of friends, family, love and tasty food!

I’m off to find a late-night snack! 😀

 *Don’t forget to enter the Social Dress Shop giveaway…you have until midnight Friday!