Just because I can't make it happen...

...don't for a moment assume I'm not thinking about my Thanksgiving Dream.

In said dream, I would have a room full of people. Some of them are readers here; it would be a room full of warmth and happiness, good conversation and music.

PARENTHETICAL IT'S-MY-DREAM THOUGHT: I even know what the house would look like. I "designed" it in my mind years ago. And, since I'm a deprived Californian, it would be snowing outside. Lightly, so everyone could drive safely to and from the gathering.

No one would go hungry. Neither carnivore nor vegetarian would be left out. There would be beverages for all tastes. Plenty of comfy chairs at a large table, too; eating on trays doesn't make it.

And at the peak of the afternoon, when all are fed and catered to, I would stand and raise my glass in a toast to some wonderful people who have filled my heart with appreciation and joy. It would take a while; that would be my best chance to tell each and every one what they mean to me.

My love would be with me.

ANOTHER PARENTHETICAL CAN'T-SEE-EVERYTHING THOUGHT: I don't know what she would look like. I only know she would have the virtues of a couple of women I know and would be as honest, faithful, loving and caring toward me as I would be to her.

And after the meal, more conversation, more music, more of the warmth generated by good people having a good time.

And yes, John, Bing would stop by with his cocktail shaker full of eggnog. He might even sing.

Much later, I'd wash dishes before going to join my love in front of the fire....

It's not happening for me, but that doesn't stop me wanting each and every one of you to have your own part of that happy vision tomorrow. Love, friendship and good food are what Thanksgiving is all about, you know. Along, of course, with an appreciation for the universe that has provided them.

Bless you all, dear friends.