Food (Duh)

This is sort of a given. I think everyone's favorite part of Thanksgiving is cooking and eating. Every year, I look forward to my mom's pineapple cheese casserole. It sounds kinda weird and gross, but trust me: it's delicious. Turkey, ham, green bean casserole, and sweet potato pie resonate Thanksgiving to me.

I will say, though, there are always those weird foods nobody really ever eats. Although she makes a bomb pineapple cheese casserole, my mom also makes this weird green Jell-o stuff with celery and Cool Whip. Not sure why she continues to make this every year because nobody ever eats it.

Spending Time with Family

My mom's side of the family and my dad's live pretty far apart, so we alternate from year to year. It is very rare that my entire family is together, so I always get really excited to see my cousins, aunts and uncles, and grandparents all together at once.

I love cooking with my grandmother and playing games with my cousins. Thanksgiving just provides time for everyone to relax and enjoy each others' company.

No School

Who could possibly complain about school being closed? There is a very big gap between fall break and Christmas break, so Thanksgiving gives everyone a breather from work and school. Personally, it gives me a chance to regain my sanity in the midst of studying for finals.

Going to a Movie

Thanksgiving is the perfect day to see a movie. Everyone else is at home still eating, but my family likes to go out and see the new blockbusters for the holiday season. It's amazing because there are no lines at the ticket stand, the concessions counter, and you get to choose whichever seat you want.

Black Friday Shopping

Although a little chaotic, Black Friday shopping is super fun. After a whole day of eating and napping, you feel energized the next morning. A good way to get that energy out is to, of course, go shopping! You get to save money and spend more time with your family before returning back home for school.