I never imagined my first Thanksgiving as a newlywed would become a story for the ages. But thanks to a golden-brown turkey, our mischievous dog Bella, and my husband’s chaotic ingenuity, it turned into a memory that will have us laughing for years.

Eight months into our marriage, Mark and I were preparing to host Thanksgiving for the first time. It was a double celebration—our first holiday together as a married couple and a housewarming party for our new home. Naturally, I was determined for everything to be perfect.

Mark and I had met at a mutual friend’s summer barbecue, where his sincerity stood out immediately. After dating for a year and a half, he proposed during a weekend in the mountains with a vintage sapphire ring passed down from his grandmother. Now, here we were, creating new traditions in our first home together.

Thanksgiving prep had me buzzing with excitement. Mark, ever the supportive husband, helped with every detail—from chopping vegetables to brainstorming centerpiece ideas. Bella, our ever-hopeful golden retriever, hovered around the kitchen, hoping for scraps while wagging her tail enthusiastically.