Go through the line of food, and get a moderate amount of everything you like.
If a number of people at dinner is too big to serve all at one table, many people like to do a “buffet style” serving. This is where everyone is in line and grabs food and then brings their plate back to the table. The correct way to cheat the system is to grab smaller amounts of food the first time. This will allow you to eat your first helping quicker than the rest of your family. Because the first reaction of many is to pile every piece of food they see onto a plate. This way you will be first in the second round of helpings. At this point, you will be able to have two decently full plates of food in the time that it takes everyone else to eat their first serving. This strategy guarantees that you will get a second helping of that cornbread stuffing or sweet potato casserole before it’s gone.
Embrace the kids table.
If the party is too large, the seating is usually broken up. All the adults fit onto one larger table in the same area, and then the “extras” are put at a small table in the living room. That is the kids table. As an early teenager, this seating arrangement was a disgrace, but now as a college student I fully embrace the kids table. This is where the fun people sit. I can assure anyone who feels like they are missing out at the adult table that they are not missing much. While the adult table is polite and conversational, the kids table is the place where you can make bets with your cousins about how much bread they can fit in their mouth. You will never be too old for the kids table so enjoy it while you can.
Participate in the traditions.
Keeping a large group entertained for longer than just the meal can be difficult. Over the years, families and friends tend to start a ritual of pastime activities. Whether it is watching or playing football, playing a game of cards, or watching a movie, it is important to keep those traditions alive. It makes a celebration unique and gives your guests something to look forward to other than just the great food.
Take time to appreciate those around you.
Nothing is more special than spending time with friends and family. This holiday is all about sharing a meal and being thankful. Sometimes friends and family can be taken for granted. It’s moments like this that we should slow down and absorb the love and laughter in the room. If your family goes around the table and asks what you are thankful for, answer truthfully. If they do not, tell people that you are thankful for them. Even if they may know it, people love hearing it. Large family gatherings may have members you do not get to see that often, and it is always nice to hear that they are appreciated even when you don't see them regularly.
