Today's economy begs us to forget our woes for at least a day and to celebrate what America is known for, freedom and bounty.  In 1943, Norman Rockwell painted a quartet of paintings inspired by the speech of President Theodore Roosevelt.  One of them, entitled "Freedom From Want quot; turned out to be his most famous and the most symbolic of an American Thanksgiving feast.  An average family, happily grouped around a simple, white decorated table, wait in anticipation for the star of the show, a plump, roasted turkey.  When this painting was released to the public, America was on a low point from World War II losses, and rations on food and services kept families living frugally.  The spirit of the Norman Rockwell painting is as relevant today as it was over 50 years.   

Instead of putting on a lavish, over decorated and heavily laden feast, consider creating an elegant but simple table setting for a gathering of close family and friends, emulating the classic painting.  Gratitude and appreciation for being able to enjoy this Thanksgiving holiday in light of the shaky economy  plus a classic turkey dinner with vegetables and simple desserts will give us a sense of freedom from want and the Norman Rockwell Thanksgiving of modern times. Here are a few tips to recreate that famous event.