For every vegetarian, there is an equal and opposite holiday feast. Thanksgiving (or "Turkey Day"), Christmas, and in some traditions (like my family's) New Year's Day are all common obstructions to the vegetarian lifestyle. So when you're smelling that Christmas ham or the corned beef is getting closer and closer to your plate, here are some helpful tips that can make holiday meals a little more vegetarian-friendly.

First of all, I hope you like side dishes. Chances are mashed potatoes, mac-and-cheese and green bean casserole will be your holiday feast. But hey: what's so bad about that? People are never disappointed that they didn't get to try to main meat dish. No! They wish that they had gotten some of Uncle Bill's pineapple stuffing or the baked sweet potatoes. But since their plate was full of turducken they couldn't get to it. But you, my vegetarian friend, you get the chance to pile your plate high with those delicious side dishes that for some reason you only get once a year.

If you don't want your feast to be solely side dishes (and I don't know why you wouldn't), try making a vegetarian entree to bring to dinner.

Like these savory-looking enchiladas:

Or these delicious and simple cauliflower bites:

Not only will you be able to have a full meal, but it will also show your relatives how easy and delicious a vegetarian lifestyle can be. Then they'll finally understand that, as a vegetarian, you're not just sad and empty inside.

Finally, a fun party game: every time one of your relatives asks "how long you think you'll be doing that 'vegetarian thing," take a shot...of water so you stay hydrated while you explain to them that it's a serious lifestyle you decided to partake in for the foreseeable future. Just like any other controversial issue, vegetarianism can set relatives off on rants that are mostly unfounded arguments with a little bit of bias mixed in. In cases like these, just smile, stuff your face with some cheese and crackers, and wish them a happy holiday.

Maybe next year you can host the holidays at your house. That way you can make all vegetarian dishes you want (sides or entrees) and get the chance to ask your relatives how long they think they'll do that whole "omnivore" thing.

The holidays of course, at their essence, are times when friends and family come together to celebrate their blessings from this year and look to the next with hope of great things. So please look to include everyone to the best of your ability in your celebrations, because everyone deserves a warm welcome and spot at the table.