The Day the Sweet Taters Died
Thanksgiving at our house is never dull. Between the laughter, the marshmallows, and the memories, we always end up with a story worth telling. This year, I’m sharing a poem that captures one such moment—a fiery debut, a heroic rescue, and a sweet tater tragedy that earned its place in the Tidwell Family Book of Legends.
Culinary Curveballs of Thanksgiving
For full disclosure, my daughter, Nicole, has approved this public blog and poem for your consumption. Everyone needs some levity and especially around the holidays when things can get stressful. This poem is dedicated to Nicole, who bravely hosted her first Thanksgiving in 2024, and did a marvelous job I might add. She was, and is always a great host and great chef for any event that she coordinates. It’s a lighthearted tribute to the chaos, the camaraderie, and the culinary curveballs that make our gatherings unforgettable.
Me with my beautiful daughter, and hostess for Thanksgiving.
Also, it is important to add that I poke some fun at myself. Anyone that has set at my table (esp. family members) would agree that I am no Martha Stewart or Paula Dean! My husband would add that I have a few “killer meals” and from there it goes down fast!
Find a comfortable chair and make room for some laughter!
The Day the Sweet Taters Died
The table was set, pretty and perfect---Nicole’s debut,
her first feast to host on Thanksgiving Day.
The house sparkled clean from end to
end, Waylon all perky waiting for Luca
to play with him in the den.
Around the counter each guest grazed,
Billy boy happy in his ipad daze while
we waited patiently for that final dish to
finish, the blessing to be offered
and festivities to begin.
Suddenly…from the oven it came,
a roar of marshmallow flames.
Into a crisis mode the crowd descended,
opinions flying through smoky air. To the
rescue Dason came--- fire extinguisher
in hand. One touch, one spray, and poof!
Unknown particles spilled like snow
over counters, cabinets and floor. A white,
haze covered every nook and cranny.
“Cover the food!” cautious Carl cried.
“Oh my Lord! Say your prayers---
cause the sweet taters have died!” But never
fear, for all was well when our tummies
begin to swell with Ana’s delicious dressed eggs.
So let us pause for a moment of silence
to remember the day the sweet taters died.
Cheer up Mason & Nicole! You’ve been
inducted into the Tidwell Kitchen Hall
of Fame---with Mamma T and her
prize-winning anti-freeze chicken at your side.
In the end, it’s not the perfect table or the flawless menu that makes Thanksgiving special—it’s the stories we create together, the memories we make and the love that we share. The Tidwell Kitchen Hall of Fame may be full of mishaps, but it’s also full of love. Here’s to messy memories, full hearts, and sweet taters—may they rest in peace.