How Much Did We Spend on Our Thanksgiving Feast in 2018: A Journey of Gratitude and Cuisine

Although we didn't traditionally mark Thanksgiving, our celebration of the holiday transformed into a meaningful gratitude feast. Rather than focusing on a set menu, we honored the story behind every ingredient and the sacrifices made to bring them to our table. This year, in 2018, we embarked on a journey of culinary exploration and spiritual appreciation.

The Weekly Food Subscription

Our journey began with a weekly subscription service that delivered locally grown and produced food. Unlike the traditional Thanksgiving feast, where specific items are chosen, we received a weekly package of diverse ingredients. This added an element of surprise and challenge, encouraging us to experiment with new recipes and ingredients. Each week, the cost of these local deliveries was approximately $50.

The Meat Share and Missing Eggs

In 2018, we also engaged in a meat share program, which added a substantial $13 to the weekly budget. However, this week posed an unexpected challenge as the meat share did not arrive and our eggs were missing. We had to make up for the shortfall by purchasing two chicken eggs and various cooking ingredients, which cost us almost $100. Thankfully, we received additional root vegetables from local neighbor gardeners, making the best of a challenging situation.

The Gratitude Feast Menu

Despite the setbacks, we proceeded to prepare a feast that showcased our gratitude and appreciation for the bounty of life. Here's a breakdown of the dishes we made:

Buttermilk Biscuits - These classic American biscuits were a heartwarming start to the meal. Pumpkin Pies - A comforting, seasonal dessert that highlighted the joy of autumn. Honey-Rhubarb Muffins - These muffins offered a sweet and tangy combination, embodying the best of local produce. Barbecued Chicken - Chargrilled with herbs and spices, this chicken was a hearty addition to our feast. Lemon Chicken with Sweet Potatoes, Onions, and Russet Potatoes - A balanced dish that combined savory and sweet flavors, enhancing the Thanksgiving spirit.

We also had plans to make a pie (white, not specified in the original list) and other holiday treats, reflecting the traditions we adopted for the occasion.

The Calculated Cost

To summarize the expenses, our total expenditure for the 2018 Thanksgiving dinner was approximately $150. This included the weekly local food subscription ($50), the meat share ($13), and the additional purchases to fill the gaps ($100), minus the additional root vegetables ($0). This comprehensive effort helped us celebrate a meaningful and inclusive Thanksgiving feast.

By embracing a local and sustainable approach, we were able to connect with our community and appreciate the effort behind each ingredient. Our gratitude feast was not just about the food but the spirit of togetherness and appreciation that made the holiday special.

For those interested in adopting a similar approach to their holiday celebrations, consider community-supported agriculture (CSA) subscriptions or sourcing from local farmers' markets. This not only supports local producers but also enhances the culinary and emotional experience of your holiday.