We knew this would be a weird Thanksgiving, with the pandemic raging, but we didn’t expect it to start with such sad news. Our friend, Bill Hausman, died from injuries he suffered in a car accident on November 11. Bill was a bachelor, but his friend Sally was allowed to see him in the hospital, and he died while she was sitting with him, holding his hand. In these days, to have someone with you in the hospital is a blessing. We are very sad about Bill, who was always very cheerful and good fun, a keen fox hunter and basseter. It is more bad news in a bad year, but we are thankful to have known him, and grateful that he is at peace. His enthusiasm and kindness will be missed.
Bill on our horse, Paint 
Bill was a whipper in when I was a huntsman 
Bill on the left, next to Harry, helping me take hounds down Benne Road
After that sad news, the day was uneventful and we had time to think of past Thanksgivings. I am shocked at the behavior of so many people who are compelled to get together with family this year. Growing up, my mother managed a Thanksgiving feast for all ten of our family and also the Schaefer family, our friends (there were seven of them). Mr. Schaefer had died, so my mother always included them. In the mid nineteen nineties, Harry and I took over “having Thanksgiving” at our farm in Bowling Green, and it was quite a production. Friends and family made the trek over the river and through the woods. Harry did a treasure hunt for the kids, there was a bonfire, horses gave pony rides, and Harry cooked a feast (I set the table). Those were rich memories.
Fifty Three gives rides – Harry & Edna (his mother) 
Anne and brothers (and Madeline) 
Edna and Trudy 
Ruthie and the view south 
The feast 
Bonfire and marshmallows 
Music
And then, in 2003, we up and moved south to this smaller Bronze Fox Farm (“fun size”, as nephew Nick called it). So, in 2003 Mark and Deb hosted Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving 2003 (Brian, Vlad, and Anne the younger)
In 2004, we stayed home, like this year, because of weather.
In 2005, my mother wanted to do Thanksgiving again.
The dining room
And then, it was back to us (and by “us”, I mean Harry).
Doug Flutie on the Thanksgiving bonfire 
Anne and Terry 
Terry and Harry 
American Gothic nightmare version
Honestly, this quiet,Thanksgiving is something to be thankful for in and of itself. We send good wishes to all for health and happiness and better days ahead.
Stay safe, stay well.
How is Terry? Still at the Gates?
Everyone of us is sad about losing Bill and also not knowing about it until the 25th, the day he died.. He asked for little but good company and outside adventures with the animals. He was a ready, steady friend. Wish I could say as much for myself in his case.. So glad Sallie was there.