Remember that faithful day when you realized that you needed a change of scenery and made the brave decision to go to school half way across the country? Yeah, I do too. And, honestly, it’s not so bad. Until Thanksgiving rolls around, that is. This feel-good holiday full of yummy food and cute Charlie Brown TV specials comes as more of a dilemma to the far-from-home college student. It’s too short for a pricey flight home, but it’s too long to just sit tight in the dorms.
Thanksgiving with Friends
So, there’s no choice left but to find a roommate or friend willing to let you celebrate the turkey festivities with their family. This basically equates to a longing for home sweet home but free food and a roof over your head. And, the latter deserves some recognition because even though you’ll be slightly uncomfortable celebrating a family holiday with a family that isn’t yours—somebody else’s family is better than no family. So, below is a list of thank you ideas for repaying the kind souls that decide to house you this holiday season. It is Thanksgiving, after all!
- Broke? Just make them a handmade card with doodles of every family member (including pets) and secretly place it somewhere you know they’ll find it once you’ve left. Heartfelt cards are always appreciated.
- Help with the cooking, not just the eating! My roommate baked a pie and made rolls for her host family and they fell head-over-heels for her.
- Have your parents mail them a gift basket. My mom is a huge fan of sending out Harry & David stuff to whoever houses me. It’s a little pricey, but there are coupons if ordered a few weeks in advance. Just be sure to snag your friend’s address.
- Buy a copy of your favorite Thanksgiving movie or TV special on Amazon and bring it along. It’ll give you something to watch with your new family. And Thanksgiving specials are pretty inexpensive.
- Bring along semi-fancy wine, chocolates, or appetizers. These will come in handy for tiding guests over while the food is being prepared. The host will thank you.