10 Reasons I Cherish Thanksgiving

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As Halloween wraps up and we stash away our costumes, a familiar wave of excitement washes over our home, signaling the approach of Thanksgiving. For me, nothing encapsulates the essence of fall and comfort quite like this holiday. It’s a time filled with gratitude, family, and yes, the inevitable debates about politics with relatives. And let’s not overlook the star of the show: pie. So much pie.

Beyond family, food, and those tempting desserts, here are some additional highlights of my Thanksgiving experience:

  1. Curating the Menu
    Just the thought of planning the feast makes my stomach rumble! Scrolling through Pinterest and glossy magazine pages bursting with delicious recipes—think honey-roasted carrots, decorative pies, and apple-walnut stuffing—fills my heart with joy. It’s like a culinary symphony in the making!
  2. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
    Even as an adult, the spectacle of massive balloons parading through the streets feels enchanting. My little ones go wild for their favorite characters, while I hold out for Snoopy. Enjoying breakfast pie in our pajamas while watching the floats and bands is a cherished tradition.
  3. Festive Day Drinking (Just Bear With Me)
    A family tradition passed down through generations, sipping sparkling cider or wine from small glasses makes the day feel extra special. Humming tunes while basting the turkey? Count me in!
  4. Baking Day Madness
    The day before Thanksgiving is often spent whipping up all the pies and breads, filling the house with mouthwatering aromas. This not only saves time but also builds excitement for the big dinner—even with the more challenging relatives in attendance. (A little day drinking helps with their visit, too!)
  5. Creative Kid Crafts
    Yes, I’m talking about crafts! Making paper pumpkins and handprint turkeys may seem cheesy, but it truly warms the heart. We have a designated craft corner where the kids can unleash their creativity while the adults get everything ready.
  6. Waking Up Early for Turkey Prep
    Is it just me, or is the early morning quiet before the chaos of family bliss? Rising before dawn to prepare the turkey feels like a mission. Sipping coffee in solitude as I gear up for the day is a moment I treasure.
  7. Visiting the In-Laws for the Main Feast
    Crazy, right? We whip up a full Thanksgiving dinner at home just for leftovers since we always head to my in-laws. The best part? No hosting stress! I can enjoy time with my kids, sip wine, and indulge in appetizers and a massive meal without worrying about the mess.
  8. Family’s Black Friday Plans
    I used to find it odd to transition from gratitude to shopping madness, but now I can’t help but chuckle as my family maps out their shopping strategies. While I prefer to sleep in, it’s amusing to hear their plans unfold.
  9. Embracing Stretchy Pants
    Thanksgiving is the one day where it’s completely acceptable to wear stretchy pants—whether they’re sweatpants, yoga pants, or maternity ones. Comfort is key when it comes to tackling that enormous plate of food!
  10. Anticipating Christmas
    Once dinner wraps up and everyone joins in to clear the table, it hits me: we’re just weeks away from Christmas. Thanksgiving not only marks the end of fall but also ushers in the winter holiday spirit, filling us with love (yes, even for the challenging relatives) and the promise of leftover pie.

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In summary, Thanksgiving is not just about the food and family, but also about cherishing traditions, creating memories, and preparing ourselves for the joys of the upcoming holiday season.