Thanksgiving for most people in the U.S. is a time where you have those big family reunions, eat so much that you gain 20 pounds, and see family you haven’t seen since last Thanksgiving. A necessity is vacuuming every inch of the house so it doesn’t look like you live with fur-filled cats and dogs like I do. Many go around the table naming everything they are thankful for in such a repetitive way that grandma and grandpa are already asleep though the first two “I am thankful for…”
Thanksgiving is celebrated as the first day the pilgrims had their first meal in the “New World.” 90 Native Americans and 50 Pilgrims were in attendance to the gathering that lasted about 3 days.
All the pilgrims and Native Americans had was turkey and pumpkin pie. Modern Americans have certainly outdone themselves with turkey, stuffing, gravy, sweet potatoes, cornbread, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and of course pumpkin or apple pie. This is the perfect meal to make a table for 20 fat and full within minutes.
One of the best parts about having a turkey, and finishing it all is the wish bone. The wish bone is found in the turkey’s breast. After the meat has been taken off, you have to give the bone the chance to harden and become stiff. When it does, two people take the ends of each side of the bone, make a wish and pull until it breaks. Whoever gets the bigger side has their wish come true.
Not only can you enjoy the big meal that’s waiting for you back home, but you can also watch the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Whether it’s a small town parade with the occasional big balloons, clowns, or your hometown police and fire department or the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in New York City where 1000’s go and watch in awe.
One of the best parts of thanksgiving is getting to see loved ones who live just far enough that you can’t see them as often as you would like. Whether it’s you or them who does the travelling, you know the end outcome will be the smile on their faces once you’ve reached your final destination.
Last but certainly not least, there is Thanksgiving day Football. People gather around the TV with the obvious chips and salsa, cookies, pie, etc. This tradition has been going on since the dawn of football in modern America. There are also unofficial “Turkey Bowls” that go on between extended families, rival schools, or around your local neighborhood. These games bring the family together, and help burn off a few calories from the meal.
