Thanksgiving in Nantucket

Growing up, my family spent Thanksgiving on Cape Cod at my grandparents' house. To me, Thanksgiving was pine trees and Old Spice, football in the street (or on the beach), the parade on TV, art lessons, turnips, the Candy Manor, and more. It was one of my favorite holidays.

At 16, it disappeared. We still made turkey and watched the parade, but it wasn't quite Thanksgiving when we weren't on the Cape.

Then 2 years ago, my aunt and uncle resurrected the old traditions when they built a house on Nantucket. It's not "the same" - and shouldn't be. But it's beautiful and carries the essence of my grandparents.

So last week, we took cars and planes and ferries from dawn till after dusk to get there, and it was worth it: Noah playing with his cousins, big and small. My nephews making chocolate chip cookies and stuffing with Ron and Linda. Walks to the beach. Ventures into town (including the candy store). Pumpkin pie with real whipping cream. Plus crossword puzzles and homemade granola and a home movie theater.

We have so much to be thankful for. Thanksgiving just adds onto the pile.