Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Now I haven’t had a traditional Thanksgiving meal since 2016 in Massachussetts, but I’m getting ready for an ‘orphans friendsgiving’ this year. This year I am giving thanks to being on the grad school adventure in London, that my family and friends have been safe so far from Covid, and finding new friends in this big city. I’m thankful for technology in this time because we miss our families so much, and my screen time hours are mainly due to FaceTime and WhatsApp. I’m grateful for Michael Buble’s and Nat King Cole’s Christmas music for some great feel good moments as the daylight hours go down. And more in the moment, I’m grateful for the vaccines coming out, and Joe Biden/ Kamala Harris taking over.

Thanksgiving is not a day that should be cancelled. The history of the holiday is important to remember, as it is important to remember the atrocities of the white man against ALL Native American populations. Educate yourself on the native land you live on, learn about the ways you can support, and learn from your own heritage. I believe that this holiday is about what in your life you are thankful for, and to be with those that you love- a non-denominational Christmas as it was. I miss the 40 person thanksgivings of the past with three different turkeys and a double menu for the Kosher lot. The long Black Friday walks around the neighbourhood, and New York Style bagels with lox. The Turkey Trot 5K runs before indulging. The family games and early nights from tryptophan. I hope that everyone can still connect with their ‘normal’ friends and family on this strange day this year.

P.S. if you’re doing Black Friday shopping: please don’t buy from large companies this year. The small, private entrepreneurs need your help more than big box companies.