But the older I get, the more traditions seem to change. Usually I am not OK with this...but I'm learning to become more flexible. After all, old traditions are often replaced by new ones that are also pretty fun.
This year's Thanksgiving will be different. Neither of my sisters will be coming home until Christmas, so our table will be a little (2 sisters, 2 brother-in-laws, and 2 nephews/nieces) smaller. Not only that, but our table will be at my aunt and uncle's house instead of our own. Sigh.
I am trying to remain optimistic about this. After all, it's only one year. And even though it may not be what I would have chosen, I have to remember that my Thanksgiving is very blessed compared to many out there without family or food.
So I'm trying to make sure to have a very happy Thanksgiving. I thought since it'll be a different kind of holiday anyway, I thought I'd try doing something new this year to make it a little extra fun. I haven't decided on what yet, but as I was coming up with ideas, I thought I'd share some with you!
9 Thanksgiving Tradition Ideas
1. Go See A Movie.
My family has never done this, but I've heard of quite a few who do! I always feel bad for those working on Thanksgiving, but at least they're getting some extra cash. Add to their paychecks and get the family together to check out a new movie.
2. Stay In And Watch A Christmas Movie.
After you finish your Thanksgiving feast, jump right into the Christmas season! Pick out a holiday film and get snuggled up on the couch.
3. Start A Secret Santa Gift Exchange.
This was a yearly tradition among my siblings and I until we found an online Secret Santa name generator that we can use before Thanksgiving to get an earlier start on our gift shopping. Gather your family or friends and start the tradition yourself! Write the participants names on pieces of paper, fold them up, and have everyone draw a name. Set a gift price limit and have everyone make a wishlist within the limit.
4. Have A Family Football Game.
Whether you're a family of athletes or not (sometimes it's more fun when you're not ;)), this is a fun way to bond and maybe burn off some of those Thanksgiving calories. You can try kids vs. adults, men vs. women, or family against family. Making up some of your own rules might be fun too!
5. Play A Board Game.
This is a tradition in my family every time we're all together! Some of our favourites include Apples To Apples, Balderdash, Scene-It, and more recently, Telephone Pictionary.
6. Invite Someone New Over.
Chances are, you know someone who doesn't want to be alone during the holidays. Whether it's the widower down the street, the college student that can't make it home for the holidays, or even a family that's strapped for cash- invite them to eat and have fun with your family. Give them something extra to be thankful for!
7. Save The Leftovers.
I've always been more a Thanksgiving dinner kind of girl- and whether you're like me or in favor of Thanksgiving lunch- you're almost certainly going to have lots of leftovers. Why not make new recipes out of them? Try a "Moist Maker" sandwich like Ross enjoys on Friends, or come up with your own recipes. Food Network's website has plenty for inspiration!
8. Do A Family Photoshoot.
If you've got lots of family around on Turkey Day, why not take some pictures? Chances are, everyone's already dressed nicely, and the Fall leaves make a great backdrop. Grab the camera and smile.
9. Volunteer.
Thanksgiving is one of the most popular times to work in the community. There are several ways to get involved: work in a local soup kitchen, buy groceries or make food for a needy family, or try "random acts of kindness." Examples of these include taping dollar bills to coke machines for a stranger to get a drink or leaving a big tip and nice note for your waiter (There are several blogs with great RAOK ideas!). Make the day about more than pigging out - especially since there are several out there who barely get a meal.
If your family has their own special Thanksgiving tradition, please share it in a comment! I'd love to hear it! :)
-H
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