For the first time in many years, I found myself in a situation where I was going to spend Thanksgiving alone. My mother usually makes a Thanksgiving dinner for everyone in the park including her family. She had to have surgery and was unable to do this. People in the park were asking me where to go to have a good Thanksgiving dinner and I told them that any of the restaurants in Long Beach or Ilwaco that were open would be good. So taking my own advice I got in the truck and headed out, where I did not know.

While on the road I decided to check and see if the Portside Cafe was open. While going through Ilwaco I saw a sign that said Thanksgiving dinner and I pulled in to the driveway. Not knowing what I would find I got out and went to the door of the Inn at Harbour Village where I saw someone going inside but when I got to the door it was locked. Then I heard a young girl asked if I was looking for the Thanksgiving dinner, and she directed me to a side door. When I entered the designated room there were tables with white tablecloths and someone was playing a piano with a few people sitting and eating. Not knowing what I had walked into I proceeded to walk into the room and was greeted by several friendly people who asking me if I was here for dinner. I said yes and asked where I should pay. They said to have a seat and someone would wait on me.

To my surprise a plate of turkey and the best dressing I had ever tasted as well as yams, green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy was put before me. Rolls, a relish plate and cranberry sauce already on the table surrounded my plate. As I started to eat I was joined by some of the volunteers who did the cooking as well as one of the owners of the building. I asked where this came from and he said that it was an idea they had and how surprised he was at the donations made from the business in the area. I also met the lady who made the dressing and found out she was from Oklahoma as I am. I finished eating my food and was then offered some dessert from many selections. I chose pecan pie and was surprised that it was just as good as the meal, which all tasted just like home cooking. This is because it was. I cannot imagine my own mother doing as good of a job.

My thanks to everyone who had anything to do with this event. You made my year to know I live in a community that is so thoughtful. Thanks to the Inn at Harbour Village located in the middle of Ilwaco. I cannot thank you enough.

Jimmy Morris

Chinook Bait and Tackle

Chinook