The holidays are quickly approaching, (where did 2009 go?!) which for me also brings the celebration of tradition. Of the many traditions that have developed over the years, my favorite is Thanksgiving dinner with the jam.
As many families do, the four of us get together at Dock and Dizzle’s early in the morning on Thanksgiving Day. Andrew and I wear our respective college sweats the whole afternoon and “help Dizz in the kitchen” - Which really means we watch football and eat French silk pie batter.
The afternoon is unintentionally divided into each of us having time to reconnect. I am able to catch Dizz up on life, friends, and my opinions of our favorite TV shows while helping in the kitchen. I have the opportunity to talk with Dock about work, sports and more work while watching football on the couch. I also get to hear how school is going for Andrew while sharing my older sister words of wisdom as we're making the run to the Wine Market.
Around 7 we sit down and pile dinner onto our plates. Halfway through the turkey, Dock asks us the question we’ve been waiting for all day (as he’s been asking this question on Thanksgiving since we learned how to speak) - “What are the three things you are most thankful for this year?”
It’s during this time that I am humbled by the incredible support and love provided by the people closest to me. It’s easy to lose sight of what the holidays are really about and focus on the food we’re going to eat, what we are going to put on our Christmas lists and where we are going to bring in the New Year. Don’t get me wrong, I chose the chair next to the stuffing years ago, my Christmas list has been created since August and I have narrowed my New Years Eve venue down to three spots- but Thanksgiving is also a reminder that reflection is empowering.
My thoughts- take advantage of it. Share with those you spend your holidays with the three things that you are most thankful for this year.
