Holidays and birthdays are celebrated differently in different families. For example, many children tell their adoptive parents that they’ve never had a birthday cake – and certainly not one with their own name on it.

Sarah’s first Thanksgiving in her new family was quite an experience. When she saw her mom take a gigantic bird out of the refrigerator and prepare it for the oven, her eyes got wide and she said, “I’m not eating THAT!”

Well, the meal was prepared, the turkey carved, and the family engaged in a traditional sort of American process of eating from the bountiful harvest, talking, telling stories and sharing plans.

The experience was served up with love and hope and gratitude.

Later that day Sarah made a new proclamation. “I’m going to eat turkey the rest of my life,” she said.

Here is my 2010 list.