An 18th century table laid out for the evening meal. V ery quiet here at The Grand Duchy of Stollen in recent weeks what with the onslaught of daily life, but hopefully some time in the hobby chair during the long weekend. In the meantime, allow me to wish any U.S. visitors who drop by, wherever you might find yourselves in the world, a Happy Thanksgiving. The Grand Duchess and Young Master are busily preparing the final dishes upstairs in the kitchen. The Young Master and I whipped up the pumpkin pie and one of our planned side dishes yesterday afternoon. In fact, my small, freckled partner in crime did just about everything with only minimal assistance from yours truly and did it very well. The pie and casserole ought to be extra good this year as a result. I am now off to shower and shave before dressing for dinner and placing a couple of calls to family elsewhere. Enjoy the day everyone, and don't overdo it too much....