It's my Sitka Pilgrim girlfriend, Ema Sophia! I received a Thanksgiving card from Grandma and Grandpa, Jan and Bob. I sure miss my little sweetheart.

November 22, 2012 – Thanksgiving

48 degrees

Pentoga Road

Happy Thanksgiving! I awakened early snuggled next to Sargie. It was warm and cozy under the blankets and as I lay in the dark looking up at the ceiling, one hand absentmindedly twirling a lock of Sargie’s hair, I thought of the twists and turns, hills and valleys, we’re all forced to negotiate as we travel through life. Like most, I’ve had many, more good than bad. My life’s not been prefect, but I’m a lucky one. I had to walk every step I’ve traveled the past sixty years to end up exactly where I am today. For that, I’m very thankful.

The sun attempting to shine through the dense fog on Wednesday morning

Wednesday was a busy one and by day’s end, I got out the high-pressure washer and blasted the dirt from the chipper and Man Truck. Le projet de popple est fini! The popple project is done! The last tree was cut about 3:30 PM and with a sigh of gratitude, I guided it into the chipper and watched it exit the chute as mulch.

A fire was started to burn some of the spruce trees and other dead wood that wouldn’t fit into the chipper. Once every hour, I’d use the front-end loader to turn the pile, letting air get to the coals so it would burn hotter and faster. Hopefully there are some remaining embers as I’ll try to rekindle the flame later this morning.

I did get into a mess at one point. Someone, some insensitive soul, some evil entity, a real Scrooge, moved a tree stump when I wasn’t looking that caused the tractor to become high centered.

As usual, the Man Truck came galloping to the rescue. It was only after attaching a large logging chain and invoking the God of High Centered Vehicles Everywhere, that I managed to jerk the tractor from its lofty perch.

The last popple, a single tree, the lone survivor of thousands, stood where once many had grown. Though like those that had fallen before, it was crooked and spindly, I was tempted to let it grow in hopes that someday, it might cast its shade over a family picnic or outdoor gathering.

Naw, that only happens in children’s story books. It felt good to watch that two-inch over-grown weed fall to the ground.

The last popple (crooked one leaning to the left)

As long as there’s no snow, I’ll fiddle around cleaning up, gathering fire wood, and burning brush as winter draws closer, but I’ve proclaimed the popple project finished. It all worked out well and for that, I’m thankful. The next phase will be landscaping beginning next spring.

Battle scars are all that remain of the Popple Project

Sargie was home early last night. We gabbed in the kitchen while making cranberry sauce and later, we made huge vegetable omelets. The evening concluded with a game of Rummy. I forfeited my short-lived reign as the champion of Pentoga Road and turned the title back over to Sargie. When it comes to cards, she’s a hard nut to crack.

We’ll be departing from Pentoga Road late morning to make our way to the Milligan Family Thanksgiving in Iron Mountain. Sister, Jeanne, and brother-in-law, Boyd, are hosting it this year. I’m looking forward to adding our cranberries to all the other foods that make up a giant Thanksgiving dinner.

I was fixing Sargie's slipper and managed to super glue my fingers together. I ended up having to cut them apart. The last I counted, there were still four fingers and a thumb on my left hand.

So for my wonderful sons, their wives, and children, I give thanks. Are all celebrating Thanksgiving in their own ways.

For Mom and her continued good health and happiness, who will be celebrating the day with my nieces, sister and brother-in-law, I also give thanks. God only gives us one Mom and mine’s the best.

For Sargie’s sons and her large extended family, all who have opened their arms to include me as a member of the Mighty Milligan’s, I’m very grateful.

For my friends, especially those who I consider my brothers, I’m thankful. Each loves me unconditionally and I hope all know I feel the same.

For my on-going journey in life, complete with its twists and turns, hills and valleys, I give my thanks.

And for Sargie, the girl who allows me to be me, loves me just as I am, serves as my unfailing other half, sits behind the wheel of the car when I’m unable, reminds me to wash my hands, attempts to teach me some manners, and soundly defeats me while playing Rummy, I’m especially grateful. Happy Thanksgiving sweetheart. I love you.

Once again, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. May God Bless.

Now, let’s eat!

So are the tales from Pentoga Road…

Sunrise on Thanksgiving morning