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5 Ways to Enjoy Your Thanksgiving

Wednesday, November 22, 2017


If you know me IRL or if you've been around this space recently, you're aware of my undying love for Thanksgiving. I understand that for a lot of people, though, this holiday can be stressful. Large family gatherings with lots of different personalities (and political views), difficult and often expensive travel, too many plans and obligations. Let's take back the day, shall we? Here are five easy ways to enjoy your Thanksgiving and the extended weekend:

1. Give back.
Whether that's paying for the coffee of the person in line behind you, including family, friends, or acquaintances in your plans, making a charitable contribution during your Black Friday shopping, or volunteering on Thanksgiving day (I'd love to do this) -- finding a way to give back not only captures the spirit of being grateful, but lessens stress since it forces us to look outside of ourselves. 

2. Find some quiet.
Yes, this is a big holiday often celebrated with extended family, excessive food and fanfare. But, if you can, try to carve (pun intended) out some time for quiet. A walk before or after your meal, a few minutes in the early morning or after everyone goes to sleep. You can use this time to breathe and reflect. Taking some time for just yourself will give you that bit of inner peace you may very well need.

3. Eat the damn pie.
Give yourself a break and enjoy all that the day has to offer guilt free. Life is too short not to eat your aunt's world famous pie or have another scoop of potatoes. Unless you have true health issues, one day will not make or break you!

4. Start a new tradition.
If you're feeling stuck in a holiday rut, driven by old traditions that may drive you crazy, why not start something new? Suggest a new game to your family that will inject a healthy dose of humor into the weekend, or a bake off, or family volunteering, or hosting a brunch instead of dinner at your place.

5. Document it.
Take photos of the people seated at your table, old and young, and perhaps record a clip of funny or meaningful conversation on video. Yes, you want to be present in the moment first and foremost, but a close second is having a few memories recorded to look back on. 

I'll be taking the rest of the week off to try to do all of the above. :) Happy Thanksgiving, friends! I'm so grateful for each of you.

4 comments:

  1. I love these easy tips! I have been all about having a more laid back holiday season this year and this is just what we all need to hear!

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    1. I'm so glad you love them, Kristen! Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

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  2. I ate all the damn pie and all the damn food this weekend. Ha.

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