Every year at my house, we have a huge debate over the Thanksgiving meal. I swear the argument has brought my entire extended family to the brink of violence. The debate is epic.
It comes down to this...mash potatoes: chunky or creamy?
But tater-disagreement aside, contemplating an afternoon of feasting with either my family or my husband's brings a pleasant taste to my mouth, and my only anxiety is over the extra calories that will jumpstart the Christmas eating season.
However, over the past year, I've spoken with many families about their traditions, and I grew very aware that some people do much more than inhale a turkey dinner on this day of gratitude expression. In fact, I was awed by the ways people chose to give back to their families and communities, and I figured I'd better pass some of these ideas along.
Give thanks for your blessings by helping others...
On Thanksgiving day, many of us can't even begin to conquer all the items that will grace our table. However, overabundance isn't the norm for every Oklahoman. Places like The City Rescue Mission serve meals to the homeless. Stacy Valentine, who supervises community relations at The City Rescue Mission, says that people can help by adopting a table (decorating a table, bringing a dessert, and eating lunch with the clients) or contributing to their food resource center.
Give thanks for your country by adopting a soldier...
Several organizations offer opportunities for us to send a real thank you to our service men and women. Both Adopt A US Soldier and Letters to Soldiers allow you to express gratitude through letters and/or care packages, and the support never goes unappreciated. Wendy Lynch, Chief Liaison Officer for Adopt A US Soldier sums it up perfectly: "We need to let them know that we support them, that they are cared for, and not forgotten. This is a small thing to do for these brave men and women who are making some of the greatest sacrifices in life."
Give thanks for your health by exercising with friends and family...
One of the simplest ways to say "thank you" to a healthy body is to use it. Edmond and Oklahoma City both offer a way to celebrate healthy living on Thanksgiving, not to mention getting a jumpstart on those pesky pumpkin-pie calories. The Edmond Turkey Trot will take place in downtown Edmond (and will benefit Turning Point Ministries), and the Oklahoma City Turkey Trot at Lake Hefner (benefiting Eagle Ridge Institute). If an early morning race is out of reach for you and family members, take time to for a walk or jog, or even a flag football game that says, "Hey, I'm grateful for what I've got."
Give thank for your family by telling them...
And if you find yourself up to your elbows cooking sweet potato casserole and pecan pie, even a simple pack of note cards, with a message quickly scrawled to each guest, will help you and your family members remember that life is a gift, every day is a blessing, and each moment should give us a reason to say, "Thanks."
Very well said. I love it....Thank you for sharing. By the way...I think creamy mashed are the best.
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