Over the River and Through the Woods

Over the river, and through the wood,

To Grandfather's house we go;

The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh

through the white and drifted snow.

Over the river and through the wood--

Oh, how the wind does blow!

It stings the toes and bites the nose

As over the ground we go.

Over the river and through the wood,

To have the first-rate play.

Hear the bells ring, "Ting-a-ling-ding",

Hurrah for Thanksgiving Day!

Over the river, and through the wood

Trot fast my dapple-gray!

Spring over the ground like a hunting hound,

For this is Thanksgiving Day.

Over the river, and through the wood--

And straight through the barnyard gate.

We seem to go extremely slow,

It is so hard to wait!

Over the river, and through the wood--

Now Grandmother's cap I spy!

Hurrah for the fun! Is the pudding done?

Hurrah for the pumpkin pie!

(Lydia Maria Child, 1844)

Oh what memories!!! I used to love sing this song at Thanksgiving time. There was a time when I knew the whole thing by heart. Thanksgiving also seemed to be colder back then, and I remember playing out in my grandparent's backyard until the dinner was done. The ground was always frozen--not soggy and warm like today-- as I dashed about riding my trusty broom.

I was thinking of traditions today, and one tradition that I haven't changed is the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. Ironically, I live here in the city, but have never seen it in person. But, the one thing that stands out year after year is the arrival of Santa. To me and to millions of others, when Santa arrives at the Macy's parade, the holiday season begins.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful day.
Mary