Jennifro

Pilgrims and Indians

So what do we do when October ends and we miss our costumes? Dress up for Thanksgiving of course! Last year Mary and Natalie proposed we have an authentic Thanksgiving out at the farm. The rest of us were easily persuaded, and so began preparations to gather in a cottage in the woods dressed as pilgrims and indians. It was a genuinely remarkable day and I'm incapable of capturing the feast for the eyes we experienced when we first entered the woodsy cottage, glowing with firelight, and filled with a cast of loved ones in traditional dress. It was an entirely sensory experience with the rustic surroundings and the faint smell of smoke and comfort food filling the air.

Jill and I later talked about how it felt like we had been transported to another time, when we walked in and saw Mary in her pilgrim garb hovering busily over the tables. I only wish I would've taken more pictures.

Natalie set beautiful tables that were simple, elegant and meaningful. The place cards were black and white photos of everyone in attendance; they were so striking next to the autumn colors.

She is really gifted when it comes to entertaining and making special occasions extraordinary. Before the prayer, we always begin with a few traditional hymns of Thanksgiving which brings a wonderful mood.

During dinner we were entertained by re-enactments and readings from real pilgrims like William Bradford and other fine characters. (William pictured above, seated on right)

I am convinced I brought the hunkiest warrior of them all. You should've seen him riding bareback on his horse! It was quite exhilarating for his squaw.

An inter-racial marriage--and it's working.

I love this photo of Jack with his gun; it looks so real to me.

Mother Rob. Cross-dressers were around even way back when.

I can only imagine how magical this whole experience was for the kids. I think they walked away with more appreciation for what Thanksgiving is all about and why and how it began.

After dinner we went outside for some real old fashioned fun. We divided into teams: Indians vs. Pilgrims. We shot bows and arrows and raced horses bareback around barrels. It was such a fantastic afternoon. I have such a visual of Chief dressed as "The Chief" galloping around those barrels, his head-dress bobbing up and down, as he brought home the victory to a dozen whooping Indians. It was a day filled with laughter and unforgettable moments.

Later that evening, we retired our duds, and met at Natalie's for warm pie and a talent show. The children all came prepared to perform; they each had something unique to share. This was such a perfect way to end an already beautiful day. One of my favorites was Little Johnny singing "I've Been Watching You, Dad" with Big Johnny, it was surprisingly touching and added depth to the warm feelings of the night. Thinking about this day fills me with immense gratitude to God for the love of dear friends and family that grace my life. I am blessed.