My Mom hosts Thanksgiving, she enjoys having the company at her house, and she loves cooking. This year is interesting, with older children and their life changes and how that guaranteed attendance is no longer a guarantee. My oldest son, Clay and his partner will be coming to our Thanksgiving but leaving early to visit his partner’s family later in the day. My youngest son, Colby, attends college in Winona and wasn’t sure he was coming. He later confirmed that he would be coming, but it is getting more difficult, since he has a serious girlfriend and visits her family often in La Crosse. So, my wife and I are having to make some emotional adjustments, just like our parents before us, so the cycle continues. I just didn’t know how difficult it could be, but for now, I will be thankful for what we can have, both sons visiting us at my Mom’s for Thanksgiving.

One of my annual fall/winter preparations is rabbit-proofing our yard. I know it sounds absurd but in NE Minneapolis we have herds of rabbits. As I'm sure many of you are aware, those cute little creatures will eat your entire yard if you don't protect your landscaping and that can get costly!