Aaaahhh fall! This is by far my favorite season. Mother Nature puts on the finest display of her favorite jewel tone colors in everything from leaves to gourds. Mornings become crisp, and snuggling in cozy fabrics becomes a must.

It is also the time of year that I can't wait to wrap my hands around a mug of caramel apple cider and begin scanning the night sky for Orion.

Maybe, this fascination also stems from being a farmers daughter. Harvest is almost over and the workload shifts from the fields to the shop. As a kid we always celebrated when the irrigation water was turned off.

It probably doesn't come as a surprise that Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. It's a day dedicated to delicious food and family.

Born into a family of cooks there is no shortage of tasty treats. The only pressure I feel during Thanksgiving is my waistline against the fabric of my clothing.

With great food, also comes the need for a excellent nap. I always find it amusing when the men gather around the football game after the big meal, and within minutes someone in the group has nodded off.

We may blame the turkey, but the truth is we like basking in the day known for gluttony.

Over the years Thanksgiving has grown with the addition of husbands, nieces, nephews, in-laws and two grand-dogs. They are the beginning of the many blessings I'm thankful for this time of year.

This will be the first Thanksgiving my whole family will be attending. With a house full of children's screams, men snoring and family stories, it's hard not to be thankful for the small things this autumn season will bring.

I would like to extend a warm wish to you and your family. Happy Thanksgiving and relish the calm before the storm.

Jonda Spurbeck is the Columbia Basin Herald design chief, in charge of layout. While she is thankful for her family and the season, her editor and co-workers are thankful for her being part of our team.