A week from the day I type this article, I will be driving home to my family for Thanksgiving break. I can already picture the exuberant hugs and kisses I will receive from my family. My heart warms as I think of all of my loved ones gathering in one place — my own home.
My parents have hosted Thanksgiving since we moved into our new home, about 12 years ago. Hosting such a holiday was symbolic to my parents because our previous home was not large enough to entertain all of our friends and family under one roof. I swear my mom was born a natural hostess, a trait I quickly adopted after working in a restaurant and being raised by Italian women. Food is the focal point of our conversations and all family events. While I love a good white Christmas or sunny Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving will always trigger a distinctive sense of nostalgia for me. It brings us all back to the basics, sharing a meal with good company and conversation. There is no emphasis on gifts or flashy materials. I may be biased between my love of fall and the fact that my house is where we gather for Thanksgiving, but I truly feel this holiday has a special element to it.
Thanksgiving is a holiday comprised of traditions for my family and me. We wake up to watch the parade as we begin cooking, baking and decorating. As early as 8 a.m., the scents of Thanksgiving food flood our entire home. It is somewhat chaotic, but we embrace the madness as we eagerly anticipate the arrival of our family. My mom sends out instructions — someone has to vacuum, the table needs knives, and my dad must run to the convenience store at the last minute for drinks and ice.
As my family arrives, they notice the “thankful tree” on display in our foyer each year. They are met with paper leaves and sharpies and are asked to write down what they are thankful for (with one exception). No cliches are allowed. The words “family” and “friends” are strictly prohibited. In a somewhat cheesy but touching tradition. We go around the table and each shares what we are thankful for and why. This creates an organic conversation centered around gratitude and love. It reminds us of the simple things in life that we often forget to appreciate.
I feel that this thanksgiving will be particularly significant. Although I cherish every family holiday, I believe that my first holiday at home since being away at college will feel especially meaningful. I am looking forward to the pasta, pies and turkey, but most importantly: seeing the people I love and cherish so much.