Well, it’s that time of year again - Thanksgiving.  I think it’s fair to believe that everyone celebrates this holiday in one way or another.   Celebration begins with family and friends around a homemade feast.  Afterward, you might get the guys together to watch football, go to the circus with the little ones, volunteer to feed homeless, or prepare a big meal as shopping fuel for the following day’s events. Regardless, it is a special day because no matter what your plans are, if you are with loved ones, any time is special.  My question is - during this special occasion, what you bring to the table?  I’ll give you my top five things I believe you should bring to the table:

 

5. HAM IT UP!  –  It’s true, I can’t eat turkey, so I will reach right over the bird for a nice ham steak, but what I'm really talking about is entertainment. Coming from a big family, I know the importance of making the most out of the moment and trying to make it as special as possible.  Also, being Uncle Steve to so many, I know it’s required that I wrestle, act stupid, and get jumped on repeatedly by kids of all ages.  I wouldn’t have it any other way. So get out there and make it fun for yourself and others.

4. Football/Parade/Games – Do you get up early and go to the area parade or watch one on TV?  Do you gather around to watch football, or maybe play games with the family?  We are definitely a football family, having hosted two Henning Bowls. This is where the family gathers to do battle in the backyard. I highly recommend you do something that involves the whole family outside of the meal. It creates even more memories and helps the moment last for you and your loved ones. So play, share, and enjoy!

3. Food! the Sides – Of course, you have the bird. I have the ham, too. What I am talking about is the supporting cast:  the mashed potatoes, the 'I peeled every single one; chopped, boiled, added, milk, butter, salt and sour cream mashed potatoes.'  The dressing; the 'put the boxed crap away, shred the bread, add the celery and broth and bake it dressing,' the gravy; the 'pour the turkey juice into a skillet, add flour, salt and pepper gravy.' The corn, sweet potatoes, and don’t forget the pies, both pumpkin and pecan. If your belly is happy, you are happy, so fill it up with the good stuff.

2. The Moment of Thanks – I am a Catholic man, and ever since my father’s passing in 2007, I have done the pre-meal prayer. I guess I have a way with words, or maybe a similar view to my father.  I know this can be a tricky subject for some, and maybe prayer isn’t for everyone. I’m in no way trying to insight a riot. But please, at some point during the holiday, take a minute to say thank you. Be truly thankful, for the hands that prepared your meal, that you have a roof over your head, that a military person is out there insuring your freedom to enjoy.  Even if it is just for the air in your lungs, be thankful. Take that moment to express it in your own way.

1. Family – Family, by blood or by choice, makes everything better, and should be a major reason you are who you are. You can measure yourself by the company you keep, so make it the most special people you know. If your family is only one person, or if you live in the Duggars’ family, let them know how much they mean to you. As long as you have family around your table, it doesn’t matter what you have on it. So again, whatever your plans are this Thanksgiving, enjoy them with the people closest to you.   “I don’t have friends, I got family.”

I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving, with all the love and food you can consume.

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