My First LA Thanksgiving

My past two Thanksgivings were spent visiting Mary and enjoying the sights, sounds and attractions of exciting New York. Our lovely tradition-in-the-making included going to the Macy's Day Parade, a full day of amazing Thanksgiving food with friends followed by holiday movies, and at least a Broadway show or two.

At the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, 2009.

Our beautiful Thanksgiving dinner table at Mary's old apartment in the Upper West Side, 2009. 

We put our beloved tradition on hold this year since her family decided to spend the holiday with her in NYC and I didn't want to intrude. (A sad decision to make, but thus allowing me to visit her in the spring... I've never seen New York in the spring, but I've heard lovely things. I'm already looking forward to it).


Since New York was a no go and I'll be traveling to visit my family in a mere matter of weeks for Christmas, that left one logical plan for my holiday: spending my first Thanksgiving in LA. 


I was beyond excited for this little break from work. We got a half day off the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and then the rest of the week off as well.  I practically skipped out of Warner Bros like a giddy school girl getting out for summer break.  (Subsequently, the glorious time off went by entirely too quickly and I am absolutely not ready to dive back into normal routine tomorrow morning. I think I shall begin a countdown to my Christmas vacation...20 days! Yesss).  


I somehow went from being slightly concerned that I might not have a legit place to eat Thanksgiving din to having two dinners to attend on Thursday (for the first time in my life). The first was at Will's apartment...which just so happens to be my old apartment. (A brief synopsis of Will: He is the new tenant at my old apartment and I met him when I went there to get my mail. He is great. I'm rather fond of him... ;-) 

Will carving the delicious turkey. 

So much amazing food.

My second dinner was at Matt and Ellen's. Ten other dear friends from my church came here to dine, give thanks and play games.  Ellen had the place decorated like something out of a magazine, and the food was, again, amazing. Two Thanksgivings dinners is intense, let me tell you.  I tried to pace myself, but didn't do very well I think.  I honestly don't know if I've ever been so full. 

Table #1.

Table #2. 

After I recovered from my extreme gluttony on Thanksgiving, I thoroughly enjoyed the rest of my holiday weekend in LA. I hiked in Griffith Park, went to a couple wonderful yoga classes, watched OU beat OSU, went to a 'Home Alone' movie night, and went to an incredible 80's themed bowling birthday party for my dear friend Marissa.  That party was reminiscent of a college date party: everyone was dressed up, most people were not sober, and we turned the Jewel City Bowling Alley in Glendale into a straight up dance party. So. Much. Fun. So fun in fact, that I think I must include a couple photos...

My friend Kelley came with me. We love the 80s. 

With the fantastic birthday girl.  Thank you for being born and having an awesome party, Marissa.

Overall, my first Thanksgiving in LA was great!  While I missed Mary horribly and we have already determined we want to reinstate our Thanksgiving tradition in 2011, I am very thankful to have friends here who have really become my LA family.  They are wonderful.  (and so are nice little 'stay-cations', if you will. After this fun and relaxing break, I am totally a fan). :-)

Currently listening to: Norah Jones

Why: Because I'm trying to relax and mentally prepare for the work week tomorrow and her soulful sounds are about as soothing as they come. And also because "Come Away With Me" is truly one of the most beautiful and romantic songs ever and I will never ever tire of it. Ever.

Thankfully, 

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