Dear Reader:
My husband drove me to town today to pick up the pies. He let me off at the curb and circled back for me as there was no parking. I hobbled into a small local restaurant known for their amazing baked goods, among them: roasted pumpkin pie with mascarpone whipped cream.
I happen to be known at this restaurant (not surprising)! The owner noticed my bright pink ankle support and unusually slow, wobbly gait.
“Falling is so scary,” she said. “Glad we could do the pies for you. Now I’ll get someone to help you carry them.”
A young man appeared at my side with the pies in his hands. He waited until my husband arrived on the street in front of us and wished me a Happy Thanksgiving. I wanted to thank him by name, but I did not know it. He introduced himself as “Matthew.” I assured him that I would not forget that name.
I happen to know the derivation of his name. “Matthew” is from the Hebrew and it means: Gift of the Lord. It was my beloved brother’s name and he was most certainly a gift.
I felt my eyes fill with grateful tears. It’s been sixteen years since Matt died but he is always with me. I will forever be thankful for him.
I only just posted a comment to your ‘October’ post – so this one was good timing. More delicious North American traditions with pies and thanksgiving (something that’s not celebrated here, but fascinates me.)
I hope you have a blessed Thanksgiving. How special to have that Matthew connection when you were collecting the pies. 🙂
Thanks for reading! Yes, it was a nice feeling. Where are you writing from?
NZ…I remember…ugh!
Do you celebrate Thanksgiving?
No, we don’t celebrate Thanksgiving, but I remember it with fondness thanks to a short time living in the US, and thanks to many US friends.
where did you live in U.S.
Roosevelt Island, NY, and White Plains, NY
Ah, other side of the country…
My husband was in your country briefly and he brought me back a beautiful sweater.
If it’s merino it will be light and cozy, and just wonderful. 🙂 Hope he had time to enjoy NZ.
I’m joking? Thank you for your good wishes for a holiday I know the rest of the world finds unusual!
I think it’s wonderful to have a special day for giving thanks.
Yes, it’s a pretty laid back holiday too…show up and eat!
And it’s great food. I love cranberries!
It’s all about the stuffing and the pumpkin pie for me!
What a beautiful connection to your brother. We hope you all have a lovely Thanksgiving!
Abby, How nice to “hear” your voice! Hugs to you all
Such a sweet moment. I too know the meaning of “Matthew” because it’s Jackson’s middle name. 🙂 Hope yall enjoyed those pies!
Did not know that was Jackson’s middle name! The pie was extremely yummy! Did you have pie?