October comes to an end, Halloween is over, and November strolls in and it begins the most wonderful time of the year- the holiday season. All year we look forward to the holidays whether we're college students desperately needing a break from school, or parents who are eagerly waiting the return of their kids; we can all agree the holiday season is truly magical. However, we seem to forget the most important one, the kick-off to the holidays, the feast of all feasts: Thanksgiving. I cringe every time I hear Christmas music before December 1st and when people don't even mention they are excited for Thanksgiving. Don't get me wrong, I love Christmas and everything that comes with it; however, I just love Thanksgiving a little more, and here's why you should too:
FOOD
I have to start out on the main focus on this glorious holiday, the delicious food. Even if you're like me and don't eat the succulent turkey, everything else is to love. The stuffing that fills the room with wonderful aromas, the deep red color in the cranberries, the warm rolls that melts the butter so effortlessly are what I look forward to every year. Then just as you think you cannot eat anymore, cupcakes, apple and pumpkin pie, and ice cream are brought out and you somehow make room. How do people not like an excuse to eat all day?
This is my favorite part; everyone is finally together after months of being apart. We always have so much to catch up on so we savor every minute of it. Sure the questions about college make you want to rip your ears out but the laughter you share about everything else totally outweighs that. If you're like me and have an extremely close family, you look forward to Thanksgiving as soon as summer ends and you all go your separate ways. It's always great to see your aunts and uncles and have them shower you with complements but getting the cousins together is the best part. You get to fill each other in on all the craziness that has happened this fall and low-key get drunk when the parents aren't looking, all while sitting at the kids table (lets be real- you'll be at the kids table until you have your own.)
Giving Thanks
Thanksgiving is all about just that: giving thanks. It's the perfect time to reflect on your life and appreciate all the wonderful things in it, whatever they may be. My favorite holiday tradition is going around and mentioning at least one thing you are thankful for. Its a holiday about loving life and giving to others and less about taking. I love being able to step back and look at all the awesome things I have in my life, and thanksgiving allows me to do so.
Sure, there are games on Christmas but there is something magical about cracking open a beer and watching a football game being played in the crisp air. The sport is as American as it gets and perfectly accompanies the one holiday everyone celebrates in America. They go hand in hand and truly show what makes this country great.
The Parade
You're a liar if you say you don't like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Singing, dancing, incredible talent, and huge balloons of your favorite cartoons- do you need anything else?
Thanksgiving Eve
You can't have Thanksgiving Day without the night before Thanksgiving. It's the biggest drinking day of the year with all your friends, and maybe even family. I couldn't picture anything better than going out and getting drunk on a weekday knowing you have absolutely no responsibilities tomorrow...until mom makes you clean the house for your family coming.
Your Own Personal Homecoming
When you're away at school, you never want to leave. You love your school friends, you love your campus, you love pretty much everything about it. But there's just something special about coming back to your hometown friends and spending a few days reminiscing even if after that you go your separate ways. Even if you don't spend time with your hometown friends, you're bombarded with love from family members. Even if you get slapped in the face with questions about school, you're also showered with hugs and acceptance from your family. They cherish the time you're home and will make sure you're comfortable and happy while you're there.
There are endless reasons to love Thanksgiving so keep them in mind as this wonderful holiday approaches. Remember to give thanks to all the wonderful things you have in your life and to appreciate the time you have to do it. December, you have your chance for Christmas. Blare the music as loud as you want on December 1st, but until then...let's celebrate Thanksgiving!
