Take a deep breath.

Thanksgiving is over.

We made it through. The turkey is put away, the pies are half-eaten, the screaming baby is at home in his bed, sleeping peacefully, I hope. I’ve been the lead singer of a band and the bass guitarist, mastered Bon Jovi’s “Living on a Prayer,” decimated a Beastie Boys’ song, and listened to my dad sing “Margaritaville.”

I got to see my grandma hold her great grandson, four generations in one room. It doesn’t really matter that she can’t remember who Eli is and to whom he belongs. I’ve talked with my aunts, held my nephew, seen a cousin who now lives in California.

It’s been a good day. It’s been a long day. It’s been a day of thanksgiving, food, family, and a dog fight.

But we all survived. And we all did it together, as a family.

So goodnight, all. Much love to you!