Thanksgiving

We didn’t have a “traditional” Thanksgiving this year and that is okay. We didn’t have a turkey, we didn’t have mashed potatoes, gravey, green bean casserole, or a ton of desserts. We had white chicken chilli, corn bread muffins, cranberry relish (not the one that comes in a can, but the one with cranberries, oranges, and sugar), watergate salad, and pumpkin pie. We didn’t have a “traditional” Thanksgiving and this was one of my favorite Thanksgivings.

This year’s Thanksgiving was relaxing because it wasn’t perfect. I was able to enjoy my time with my parents and my little girl. My little girl and I went to the park and played before going to my parent’s house. We had some great connection while playing at the park. My daughter was happy and I was happy.

My mom wished for a traditional Thanksgiving and I knew it bothered her that we didn’t have a big feast and that her house is still being remodeled. She grew up with a big family and a large Thanksgiving was something always important to her. I am a single child and my husband is also a single child. Yes, I liked the big Thanksgivings we had with my aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins; but they also caused me a lot of anxiety. I could have planned a big meal. I could have invited a lot of people, but my husband worked today and some years I will be working on Thanksgiving so being flexible just makes sense. My mom kept bring up her house and not having a big feast and wanting to start having holiday meals; but we did have a holiday meal. We ate a meal together as a family on holiday.

I was happy this Thanksgiving because I wasn’t focused on being perfect. I was happiest because I was focused on connecting with those around me and those connections are what make the holidays. My daughter doesn’t need big elaborate holidays for them to feel special. She feels special when her grandpa dances with her, when her grandma tickles her, and when her chases her around the park. Her happy memories will be witht he people she loves.