It’s been a rough few weeks here in California. And, Thanksgiving looks a little different this year for a lot of people. We’ve experienced some pretty dry times in years past and it seems we’re always hoping for drought relief. But, I have never seen so much excitement for rain on Thanksgiving Day as I have this past week…though, it does present its own set of problems.

I knew before the Camp Fire started that, due to unexpected circumstances, I would be hosting Thanksgiving this year. It is out of the norm of what we usually do. But, based on what was going on, it just made sense for me to host everyone at my place.

My husband’s family has lived in Chico since he was in high school, so for the past 18 years, we have gone over the river and through the woods to spend some time at Grandma’s there. I always love the drive up. We like to take the back roads through the valley of almond orchards and rice fields, to look at the leaves changing color on the trees and the occasional persimmon tree loaded down with brightly colored fruit. It always feels a little bit like traveling back to a simpler way of life and time. And, I am always thankful for the opportunity to slow things down for a bit.

If we are lucky during our stay in Chico, and schedules permit, our good friend will drive down from Paradise to meet us at the local diner for breakfast, or sometimes just a cup of coffee. It is an opportunity to catch up on a year’s worth of news and to rehash old memories—a meeting we look forward to every Thanksgiving. Sadly, we will not be able to get together this year. The Camp Fire took his house and everything in it. But, we are incredibly thankful that both he and his dogs are okay. Sadly, his is not the only story of complete loss. We have other friends who experienced the same loss of home. But, again, I am thankful for the community that has rallied around them and given them a place to land while they figure out the way forward.

I am fairly tired of the smoke and walking around in a mask and I know I am not alone. But, I am very aware that my discomfort is insignificant compared to others. I am beyond thankful for the blessings in my life. My family is safe. We have a roof over our heads. We have food to eat. We have clothes to wear. Everyone is healthy, or at least on the mend, and we will be able to gather together to enjoy a tasty meal and raise a glass in thanks that, at the very least, we have each other. And, that is more than enough.

From all of us at Piedmont Grocery, we would like to extend our thanks and to wish you and yours a safe and very Happy Thanksgiving!

If you would like to help those affected by the fires, please consider donating to any of the following: 

Enloe Foundation Camp Fire Relief Fund

North Valley Community Foundation

California Community Foundation

Direct Relief

The American Red Cross