As the time of year to give thanks is upon us, the most important part of any Thanksgiving is the perfectly planned meal for friends and family to gather around. Each year the Writers House hosts a campus Thanksgiving for student and staff alike to gather around and start the festivities of Thanksgiving early. Being part of the Writers House staff, I know how much planning goes into this meal every year. As staff, we are assigned to do everything from making mashed potatoes or warming up the gravy to carrying cases of beer for those 21+ (yes there is even a bar at these meals). Brave souls volunteer to make turkeys and the final result is always incredible. At least three turkeys are carved on the long dining room table in the Writers House with two toferkys for those who are vegetarian or vegan. Along with the usual Thanksgiving Day foods, like cranberry sauce (three different kinds) and mashed potatoes, the Writers House orders huge trays of lasagnas. The great part about this Thanksgiving is that it’s also a potluck. Students and staff can try their hand at making something fancy and gourmet or even a bag of chips is appreciated and devoured. Beyond the food table that is teeming with dishes, the dessert table is waiting for those who manage to have enough room for it. Pumpkin, pecan, and chocolate pies with cookies and cheesecakes are piled on top of each other.
After standing in a long, but surprisingly fast, line for the food, I balanced two heaping plates of food and a drink over to the cozy reading room. The fireplace was going and everyone sat around in groups eating and talking. I sat with my friends and professors enjoying the much-needed break from work. The early festivities made me want Thanksgiving break even more but also allowed me to be thankful for the great school I go to. Going to the Writers House Thanksgiving truly shows you can have a family on campus.