A Florida Thanksgiving: Gratitude, Grits, and a Side of Gator
Well, y’all, it’s November in Florida, and the air’s cooled off just enough to make you ditch the AC for a screen door breeze. The palm trees are swayin’ like they’re hummin’ a Jimmy Buffett tune, and the mosquitoes are still plannin’ their attack. Down here where the peninsula dangles like a mullet haircut, we’re gearin’ up for a Florida Thanksgiving. One full of Southern charm and just enough weirdness to keep the snowbirds guessin’.
November in Florida ain’t got no red and gold leaves, no siree. We just got green ones and the occasional coconut hittin’ the deck. The weather might be 80 and sunny or wet enough to drown your flip-flops, but it’s got a vibe that’ll make your heart race like an airboat on Lake Okeechobee. Thanksgiving dinner’s where we shine down here, y’all. We got a table groanin’ under cornbread dressin’ (not stuffin’, we ain’t Yankees), giblet gravy, and sweet potato casserole piled high with marshmallows. But we Florida-fy it with smoked mullet dip next to the deviled eggs, a deep-fried turkey, and key lime pie fightin’ the pecan pie for glory. Cranberry sauce? Gotta have them can ridges, or we’ll talk about you in the kitchen.
The real show in the south is the family. You have your grandmama callin’ you by your kid nickname, your uncle tellin’ gator-wrestlin’ stories over a Busch Light, and that Miami cousin in flip-flops actin’ too fancy for grits. The kids are out back chasin’ lizards, and the blessing’s a marathon, thankin’ the Lord for everything from the Miami Dolphins to stone crab season. We’re grateful for the Everglades sunset, the slap of a screen door, and
Gator football. Even when they’re losin’ worse than a mullet in a beauty contest. We’re thankful for neighbors, whether they’re Crackers or transplants who can’t say “Apalachicola.”
Leftovers are our miracle down here y’all. We got turkey sandwiches with Duke’s mayo, cold dressin’ with hot sauce, and key lime pie at 2 a.m. All while watchin’ Fishin’ with Orlando Wilson too. Plus, they’ll carry us to the Christmas shrimp boil. So, raise a glass of sweet tea or swamp cabbage moonshine and toast it up to Florida Thanksgiving! It’s where we eat ‘til our stretchy pants beg for mercy, laugh ‘til it hurts, and love deeper than the Suwannee River. Happy Thanksgiving, y’all! Please pass the hushpuppies.
Leland Shipp — The Voice of Southern Charm & Master of Psychological Thrillers
Leland Shipp is the beloved “Voice of Southern Charm” at The Peddler’s Post, where his monthly articles inspire unity, humor, and community pride across Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, and Sumter counties. His warm, relatable voice and insightful commentary have made him a cherished fixture in local journalism, championing the values that make his region truly special.
An accomplished author of psychological thrillers and horror, Leland’s storytelling prowess is rooted in his deep understanding of human behavior and societal dynamics. With a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Minor in Political Science, he skillfully weaves complex plots filled with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. His debut novel, Impulsivity, explores themes of decision-making, responsibility, and the profound impact of reckless love—reflecting his keen eye for the darker aspects of the human psyche.
When he’s not writing gripping tales or engaging with his community, Leland finds solace in the great outdoors—hiking, fishing, and seeking tranquility near lakes, rivers, and the ocean. His stories often delve into psychological manipulation, paranoia, obsession, and self-discovery, echoing his love for the natural world and the mysteries it holds.
Beyond his writing, Leland’s humor and community spirit extend across central Florida, making him a familiar and beloved voice in four counties. Whether through his storytelling, community service, or spreading laughter and insight, Leland Shipp embodies Southern resilience, warmth, and mastery—connecting with audiences through words that entertain, provoke thought, and inspire.
