A typical Thanksgiving day in many homes across the United States looks something like this: wake up, Snapchat your friends “Happy Thanksgiving,” scroll through Instagram, watch Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, eat, nap, eat, watch football and, finally, eat 2-3 more times. However, this is not always the case for some people. Take me, for example. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am an avid eater and love stuffing my face with about 6+ plates of food, but food isn’t the only reason as to why I love this holiday—it’s the feelings that also come with it.
Every year, my dad and get up bright and early to go for a run to act semi-healthy on the day where seconds never end. Even though the run is always a little rough, getting to spend quality time with my dad makes the three miles worth it. During this time, we get to have conversations about everything going on in life and get to share what we are thankful for before the feast begins.
In the days leading up to the big meal, I have the opportunity to help my mom shop for and prepare the Thanksgiving Day meal. In my personal, and biased, opinion, I think that my mom is the best chef this planet has seen. Her cheesy corn, green-bean casserole and stuffing are top-notch. Learning how to cook from this pro has been a treat. Bonding over food has never brought me so much happiness than during Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving in my house has always been a big ordeal. The day before, my family members will ride into town by the truckload, literally, and prepare themselves for the following day. As each and every member of my extended family walks through the door on Thanksgiving, my heart is filled with love and happiness. By the time everyone has arrived, it is overflowing! And as I sit across from my cousins at the kids table (Even though I’m 20…c’mon, fam, I think it’s time I graduated to the adult’s section), I can’t help but think about how thankful I am! Cliché, I know, but 100% true.
To me, Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food or football, but it is also about the people you choose to surround yourself with on this day. By spending your time with individuals who fill your heart so full of love that it overflows, you can’t lose. So definitely enjoy all the delicious food this Thanksgiving, but also make sure to take a good look around you and be humbled by the love surrounding you. It may be time to eat, but it is also the time to be thankful!