I Thanksgiving and so can you!

Nov 15

Ahh….my favorite holiday is here! Thanksgiving is a traditional American holiday that begins the festive season. I like it because its is the best parts of the holiday : food, friends and cheer without the pressure of gifting. The gift is really your presence. So here’s my list of tips to help you get through without losing your festive spirit :)

The bird: Yes, most people have a turkey, but if you don’t like turkey, simply don’t make one! Thanksgiving traditions vary by region, family and budgets, and this year more than any other you don’t want to spend money on something that really isn’t going to be consumed.
The sides: Make what you want. Read this again. I can’t find fresh cranberries in Italy, and ain’t no thing. I make other sides. Personally, I am not a fan of traditional pumpkin pie, so I make Pecan Pie. And life is still dandy.
The planning: Make a list of things you think you want to make. Now cut it in half and let everyone coming bring something. You just cut your stress in half :) Make an itemized list of everything you need, yes its time consuming, but you don’t want to start cooking to realize you don’t have a key ingredient.
The guests: Invite people dear to you and just enjoy. Last year I did a more formal thing, and this year its an aperitivo followed by a buffet. Make your own traditions as you see fit. Friendsgiving and thanksgiving should really be one and the same folks.
The dietary needs: Inevitably, someone is vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, kosher, lactose free…This does not mean that the entire meal centers around one guest. Of course if everyone is vegetarian, you are not going to serve a turkey. Be practical.
My note to the guests: Just because you are “something” free, do not stress the host or ruin the party for the other guests. I have seen people bring their own food, eat beforehand or just come to enjoy the company. That makes you an awesome selfless guest. Thanksgiving is about everyone, it is not just about a single person. Let the host know what you can and can’t eat and if its clear that you are the odd one out, do what you can to make it easier on the host. Because you were invited, remember? Adulting is a thing people.
The stress: Thanksgiving is basically making a super fancy chicken dinner where the chicken is REALLY big. It does not matter if its magazine worthy. It matters that you tried, and really, if you are not a cook or don’t like to cook - order something, go out to a restaurant or make it a pot luck where everyone brings something. It doesn’t have to be a self made Martha Stewart bonanza. I like to cook, but not everyone does, and its fine. Do not pressure yourself to make this wild dinner if you don’t want to. That’s not the point of the holiday. No one said you have to “do thanksgiving” You can also opt out. Go for a run, hang out with friends, but if Turkey Day is not your thing, skip it!
The important stuff: Life is short, good friends are golden. Your family may drive you crazy but really, the fact they are there to do so is the privilege of being alive. Enjoy the moments here and now. Make new memories and laugh at the good, the bad and the disasters. The food is just an excuse to be together - it is temporary…but these moments are with you for a lifetime. Turkey or not. Be kind to others, because holidays are hard all around. And if you can’t be kind, be vague. This tip works year-round.
Cheers! And have a very happy Thanksgiving.