Giving Thanks!

Community Members Share Their Blessings

For Farmers and Ranchers

I’m thankful to our farmers and ranchers and anybody working in our agriculture community. If not for their labors, many a table might be a whole lot emptier this holiday. For the food you provide; thank you!

–Toby Benoit

For The Creator

I am thankful that the CREATOR of the universe takes time to love & bless me.

— Walter Smoak

Spring Hill Garden Club

I’m thankful and grateful for the Spring Hill Garden Club for so many years of dedication and devotion and commitment and hard work to our beautiful Spring Hill Drive water fall entrance they maintain each week. I can’t begin the countless hours they put in and with much sweat and tears and little gratitude in return. I personally with family members and friends and neighbors would love to thank each one so much and say how we appreciate your time and all your weekend’s making our community look absolutely amazing.

— Anthony Oliveira

Remaining High and Dry

We are very thankyl that our home in Ridge Manor has remained high and dry during the flooding that has continued since Hurricane Milton. We are grateful to the neighborhood residents who have stepped up and assisted others who have lost their homes, and we are thankful that the Hernando Sun is covering this disaster in a thorough and timely manner.

–Brooke Martin

Good Neighbors

I am thankful for wonderful neighbors who are there to help me with so many things on my “to do but can’t figure out HOW TO DO IT lists.” Changing ceiling air conditioning filters, installing electric timer, explaining and teaching me that the way to install a new phone (who knew that should take less than five minutes not 45) and opening up a tough wine bottle after those 45 minutes! Sharing so many delicious home made meals and the raucous laughter when we get together….especially during our neighbors’ pajama party during Hurricane Milton when we played dominoes by battery operated lights till 1:00 a.m. These are just a few of the reasons why my neighbors are indeed my Christmas angels. I am thankful and I am blessed.

— Janet Hennessy

For My Grandparents

I’m so grateful for my grandparents, whose kindness and generosity have shaped who I am today. Their love, guidance and unwavering support have been the foundation of my life, teaching me the value of compassion and giving. I’m truly blessed to have them as my role models and inspiration.

— Summer Hampton

To the Staff of Hernando Sun,

Stage West Playhouse Members and Board of Directors would like to give a great big thank you to the Hernando Sun Staff and writers for their excellent coverage of our shows and special events.
A special thank you to Sarah Nachin for her beautifully written reviews of our stage productions.
We also thank our patrons for their unfailing support over the last 43 years and a great big thank you to our volunteers both on stage and off. We are truly blessed.
Wishing all your staff and their families a happy and blessed Thanksgiving.

— Stage West Playhouse

Spending Time Outdoors

I am thankful for the ability of my grandkids to fish in the lakes around here and for the kids to be outside all the time playing. Lots of kids don’t have this opportunity.

— Carol Valure

For Our County

I am thankful to live in a county where school board members are elected by the people. Where parks and side walkers are a priority. Churches of many denominations are available and impact values within our communities. Culture events are becoming more prevalent
and supported. More doctors, medical facilities and physical health concerns are addressed.
Good people live in Hernando County and give of their time and talents.

–Madeline Johnson

Thankful for Family Recipes

As I plan my Thanksgiving menu, I often give thanks and credit to recipes given to me through the years by family and friends. I will make Mom’s cranberry fruit salad, Nancy’s homemade flaky crust for pumpkin pie and a corn casserole from an old church cookbook. All are tried and true through the years.
However, this next idea came to me by way of a local newspaper. So delicious, try it!
The main event, the turkey, needs to be moist, full of flavor and memorable. My favorite is Herb Crusted Turkey with brown gravy. It is a simple but flavorful process. Pat dry your defrosted bird. Mix ¾ cup mayonnaise with parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. Use 1-2 tablespoons of herbs, but heavy on the sage, just because that is our favorite. Also, add about 2 teaspoons of salt and some pepper, as you like it. Using surgical gloves, I rub the turkey with the mayo mixture inside and out. Pretend you are giving it a loving massage. Bake as directed on the oven bag. Save the drippings for the gravy.
Mix the turkey juices (drippings) with ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup chicken broth, salt and pepper, I added more sage and rosemary and some milk for creaminess.
This gravy is very tasty and complements the roasted bird. Enjoy!

– From our family to yours: Have a blessed, thankful day! —Sharon Printz