Happy belated Thanksgiving everybody! I have to admit the holiday season got the best of me and that’s why this post is late. Travelling home for the holidays is such an ordeal. After stuffing myself three or more times yesterday, I’m finally able to function again.  Even though this is a bit late, this tips can apply to any holiday!

I saw this funny meme on Instagram a couple of weeks ago that said Thanksgiving was like the pregame party before Christmas. I’m not going to lie, it made me feel a little sad that such a fun holiday was seen as a Christmas waiting room. Regardless of its historical meaning, Thanksgiving is a great time to reflect on all of the blessings in your life and for a college student, a time to get free food and drink! If you’re struggling to find some fun during this often-overlooked holiday, here are 8 ways to put the thanks in thanksgiving!

1)    Make a dish for the feast

I don’t know about you, but I love to cook! It’s so therapeutic and I feel especially warm inside when I cook for others. There’s honestly nothing like putting your heart and soul into a dish for your loved ones. This year, I made the mac and cheese and after seeing smiling faces around the table, I was happy I invested time. 

2)    Volunteer at a soup kitchen

It’s easy to forget how fortunate we all are. So many of my friends were anxious about the types of questions they were going to get from probing family members (lol). Some people would kill to be asked embarrassing questions if it meant they could enjoy a warm meal with their family. Sometimes we take all of this for granted. Volunteering is an important reminder that we have so much to be grateful for.

3)    Help your elders prepare and learn a few things

One of my favorite things about going to my grandparents’ house for holidays is the one-on-one time. A lot of us take our grandparents for granted. Before they were your parents’ parents, they were interesting people with amazing lives. I love to help my grandma in the kitchen and ask her about who she used to date before my grandpa, or her hopes and dreams as a young woman. If you aren’t talking to your grandparents during the holidays, then you are missing out on a treasure-trove of funny stories and amazing lessons. This doesn’t just have to apply to grandparents. Any elder in your family is fair game. They won’t be here forever, make memories.

4)    Have a post-dinner film marathon

My family’s favorite thing to do during the holidays is watch films, especially after a large meal that needs time to digest. You could step in and make this a tradition in your family. Make up a line-up of oldies and new films that you think would make your family laugh or cry or both. It’s a fun time. If your family can’t agree on a movie, put on some home videos. No one will be mad at that!

5)    Entertain the kids and make the kids table lit

Everyone dreads the kids table, but why? Kids are hilarious. Prepare yourself and bring games or topics of conversation. Play with them outside or break out the karaoke machine before the meal to get their energy out. Bring a speaker to the table and play their favorite tunes. Thanksgiving can be a tough holiday for impatient kids, so make it fun for them too!

6)    Invite people who you know need a place to go

There’s this stigma that you have to bring a significant other to Thanksgiving, but if you don’t want to do that, bring someone who you know won’t be able to go home for the holidays. Everyone deserves a warm meal and laughter. 

7)    Take on the role of DJ

If music is your thing, make a few playlists for the occasion! Al Green is always a hit for my family but make one personal to your family. Something that gets your grumpy aunt up and makes your grandpa break out his old moves!

8)    Make Thanksgiving a pajama party

I surprised my little sister by wearing a unicorn onesie that matches hers this Thanksgiving. She was overjoyed and I was super comfy all day! Plus, the onesie didn’t constrict me from all my second and third helpings. It’s a fun, silly way to connect with family, while also being comfortable.

Christmas is a wonderful time—don’t get me wrong—but don’t forget to enjoy every moment of every holiday. Think about what you’re grateful for and use that to fuel you this holiday season. I am thankful for everyone who reads my blog and continues to show support. As always, I’m praying for you and your family this holiday season.

Signing off until next time!

XOXO,

Dom