There’s no doubt that Thanksgiving is one of the best days of the year. Just thinking of my Aunt’s heavenly Carrot Cake or warm biscuits right out of the oven motivates me to finish that one last paper before I head to the airport. Most importantly though, I’m looking forward to being back with my family. I love my family more than anything in the world but I’ll be the first to admit that every family gathering comes along with a little dose of craziness.
Every time your family gets together for a big holiday or event, something funny, embarrassing, or just outright awkward is bound to happen. This Thanksgiving, instead of shying away from these moments, check out these tips for every awkward situation to make your Turkey Day stress free!
You’re Sitting at the Kids Table….Again
Somehow your family kind of forgot that turning 18 and going off to college kind of makes you an adult now. You’re stuck at the kids table, yet again with all of your little cousins and awkwardly small seats. Awesome.
Instead of complaining, try to make the best of the situation. Remember that the dinner is not the entirety of your Thanksgiving. You’ll still have time to hang out with your older cousins and relatives before and after the meal is served. And after being around people in the 18-22 age category 24/7 little kids can seem even cuter. Enjoy their presence instead of resenting it! I bet they’ll make you smile.
But if your little cousins aren’t exactly the smiley type or you’re not too much of a kid person consider talking to your parents or whoever is hosting the dinner. Instead of complaining and yelling ask very calmly and maturely to be moved up to the adult side of things. A lot of times your relatives may not see this as a problem just because you don’t speak up. Make yourself heard and show that you really are worthy of an adult by being mature about things.
NO I DON’T HAVE A BOYFRIEND OK?
My brothers and I can guarantee every time we go to a family event we will be asked about having a significant other. This question can often seem annoying and embarrassing- especially when you’re constantly answering no. But instead of blushing and trying to explain “why” you’re single- just own it. Tell them how happy you are at school and brag about all your amazing friends that you’ve made instead of lamenting the loss over a boy. If you show that you’re happy the way you are your relatives will be less likely to press for more answers. When in doubt…make something up…they won’t know…right?
And if you do have a boyfriend, expect, and prepare for even more questions. When my family found out I had a boyfriend all hell broke lose. Be prepared to show pictures, answer minute details, and explain over and over the story of how you met. If you’re like me and you met in a sweaty frat basement during a beer pong game (sorry about it) maybe try to censor yourself a little bit.
The Dreaded Question
I guarantee it. You will be asked one of the following questions at least once this Thanksgiving: What’s your major? What classes are you taking?How are your grades?
And worst of all…
What do you want to do after graduation?
And you’re probably all like come on Grandma I don’t even know what I’m going to write my paper on that’s due in 2 days let alone what I’m going to do after graduation! This question and all the other academic ones can seem extremely annoying and tedious. But instead of getting annoyed and embarrassed focus on the positive aspects of your academic. Instead of saying how you may not be doing too great in some of your classes talk about that one test that you rocked or paper you were so proud of. Offer to show them something you’ve produced or even use this time to talk about some clubs you’re involved in within your interest area on campus.
As for after school, that’s going to be a mystery to all of us for a long time. Your relatives are just excited to see you grow up and go off into the real world. If you have any kind of idea feel free to throw it out there- you’re not tied to your premed dreams that you talk about going in as a freshman (yep that was me, I’m in Medill now) just because you mentioned them a few places. Talk about what excites you and keep the focus on that!
Blame it on Booze
Everyone has that one aunt who has a few too many glasses of wine and becomes brutally honest on her opinions of the whole family. Whatever you do, take this as a humorous experience. Instead of being offended by her comments on your dress that’s “a little too short” enjoy the fact that you get to see your relatives acting like college kids for a night. It’s pretty funny to see your family like this, so just laugh about it.
If you are in awkward situation yourself when a disapproving older or younger family member may see you holding a glass of wine try not to panic. If it’s a younger cousin…a little white lie can’t hurt. And if it’s your grandma tell her that mom let you! Right?
But really, try not to sneak around your family and test the limits. It’s about being with family not slapping the bag. If drinking isn’t your family’s style then just don’t do it.
#Callout
That awkward moment when one of your relative calls you out for a Red Solo cup profile picture or a 2am tweet. Oops. Social media doesn’t always capture the best of us. Try to brush this off in a joking matter…”I don’t know what you’re talking about…that was soda!” or just laugh at yourself. Chances are if they’re bringing up they’re just teasing you a little bit. If you’re being approcahed in a more serious manner try to be respectful and possibly even change the subject. And most importantly remember for next time to update your privacy settings and be careful of what you post!
Or when all else fails, just be ridiculous:
http://www.tressugar.com/Awkwa…
You don’t have to see them for another year, right?