Thanksgiving: Preparations

I just finished the first run to the grocery store for Thanksgiving by going to the local big grocery store that I only visit a few times a year.  Mama will make the second run, to Whole Foods for the special happy turkey, tonight.  See, for whatever reason, we spend the whole year mostly seasonal, local, organic, non-processed, no cans even, but for Thanksgiving I revert to all the holiday foods of my youth--green bean casserole,  broccoli rice casserole, canned candied yams with marshmallows, strawberry jello--with cream of mushroom soup, fried onions, canned yams, Cheez Whiz, even Jello!   Which is why I have to go to the big local store because the Whole Foods doesn't carry such things.  Which should be clue number one that I need to make some changes.  However, I never try new recipes for the holidays--too much pressure for the day.  I like the old recipes and once a year isn't really a problem.  And I still make my cranberry sauce, gravy, dressing, rolls, pecan pie, brussel sprouts, and such from scratch . . .   But it seems ironic to celebrate the harvest with some of these dishes.  So my holiday vow is to convert my old recipes to healthier, more natural versions and to try some new recipes BEFORE the next holiday meal.  If you have any favorites, do send them along!