The Post-Thanksgiving Season

Jaz stands beside some of the tasty desserts awaiting him after his meal. (PHOTO COPYRIGHT 2015 BY JAZ PRIMO)

Happy Post-Thanksgiving, Everyone!

Or, should I say, Happy Black Friday?

Nah, that’s merely a self-proclaimed sales opportunity in celebration of consumerism. Okay, maybe that’s a bit too lofty and self-reverent. Let’s put it this way…if you need to save some money via discounts on this day, more power to you and best wishes for safe shopping. If not, and you’re like me, it’s a wonderful day to spend on the couch binge-watching programs stored up on my DVR while sipping hot tea or cocoa. Oh, and let’s not forget all those yummy leftovers from Thanksgiving!

How was your Thanksgiving? Mine was marvelous and spent with friends and loved ones while sharing a host of tasty dishes. Here’s what we had for dinner…

Jaz's Thanksgiving Meal (PHOTO COPYRIGHT 2015 BY JAZ PRIMO)

I catered a tasty smoked turkey, courtesy of a local barbeque restaurant named JT’s BBQ. The cream cheese corn complimented thing very well, the creation of my good friend Jimmy.

Jaz's Thanksgiving Meal (PHOTO COPYRIGHT 2015 BY JAZ PRIMO

I made the classic green bean casserole topped with those wonderful French’s dried onions. The cranberry dressing (stuffing, some call it) is my favorite dressing of all time, and was prepared by my dear friend Jessica. She also made the most decadent version of baked macaroni and cheese casserole, which melts in your mouth. Jessica’s mother made the perfect sweet potatoes in syrup and topped with a thick layer of marshmallows.

Jaz's Thanksgiving Meal (PHOTO COPYRIGHT 2015 BY JAZ PRIMO)

The dinner rolls were of the easy thaw and bake variety but tasted like they were homemade. And the desserts were AMAZING, compliments of Jessica! She baked a cherry pie, pecan pie, three pumpkin pies, and a big batch of chocolate chip pan cookies. Oh, I was in dessert heaven…and will be residing there for a number of days, actually.

Thank the Goddess for leftovers!

What did you have for Thanksgiving dinner? Did you go traditional or something completely different? Leave a comment and let me know.

What’s that? *cupping my palm close to my ear*

I hear a plateful of leftovers and my couch and DVR calling, so I better get to it. My two kitties are ready for snuggling, too. It’s the best…

Oh, and did I mention that – for the FIRST TIME in my life! – my Christmas shopping is already COMPLETE? Yes, that’s right, there’s NO hectic last-minute shopping for me. All that I have to do between now and December 25th is: put up a few decorations, send out my holiday cards, and make a leisurely effort to enjoy the three weeks leading up to the big day. Ahhh, this feels great!

If you’re just kicking off your holiday shopping, be careful in your travels, and proudly display your “good will toward others” for all to see and experience.

Oh, and be sure to check out my official Jaz YouTube channel for the latest video on my newest furry addition to my family, Patches the rescue kitty. Click here.

Until later, enjoy life; be kind to those around you, and Happy Shopping…oh, and reading! Peace.

Je Suis Paris !

Last Friday night, the historic city of Paris was victimized by multiple terrorist acts that took the lives of more than 100 people and injured hundreds of others. It was reported to be the worst attack on the nation of France since World War II. This past weekend, the world struggled to process the depth and scope of those events. My thoughts of condolences and support go out to all of the victims, as well as their families and loved ones.

In the coming weeks and months, much will be said by governments, politicians, security experts, and a host of others with insights and opinions on what took place. At the risk of adding to the din of voices, I have but this to offer: As a U.S. military veteran, I don’t easily offer the idea of placing our military members in harm’s way. Yet, there comes a time when rabid, bloodthirsty, pathological, radical extremists must be confronted; not solely for their unspeakable acts or for any perceived sense of revenge or justice by the aggrieved, nor because of political expediency or public outcry, but merely for the sake of innocent people everywhere.

To the U.S. Military: It’s been a long time since I’ve served in the ranks. But if you decide that you need experienced and skilled volunteers, I’m in. Contact me. You have my number.

Je suis Paris.