Photo credit by LSOphoto: istock.com/LSOphoto
Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite times of the year. It’s that special moment where the air feels crisper, pumpkin everything fills the stores, and our family gathers for traditions, old and new. For me, Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey or the football; it’s about the memories we share, the lessons we impart, and, most importantly, the love that binds us together.
One way we start the celebration is by revisiting a family tradition I created several years ago. Each Thanksgiving morning, we set aside an hour to prepare a “grateful tree.” It’s a super simple activity but one that has grown incredibly meaningful over time. Here’s how it works in our household. I cut out a tree shape using craft paper and stick it on one of the walls in our dining room. Then, I cut out enough colorful leaf shapes from paper for everyone in the family, plus some extras for guests. On each leaf, we write down something we are grateful for – big or small. For instance, last year, my youngest son wrote, “I’m thankful for ice cream and that Dad lets me stay up late sometimes.” My wife jotted down, “I’m grateful for Friday family movie nights,” and I wrote, “I’m thankful for early morning coffee and having my tribe by my side.”
Watching the tree fill up with our thoughts and smiles never fails to give me pause. Sometimes life gets chaotic, and Thanksgiving is the perfect moment to slow down and take stock. The grateful tree might sound cliché, but seeing it come to life reminds me of why we set traditions in the first place – to ground us in the present and reflect on our blessings.
Of course, another essential tradition during Thanksgiving is the meal. Growing up, my parents kept dinner relatively simple, but when I started a family of my own, I wanted the food to be an adventure in itself. Every year, I try experimenting with at least one new dish while keeping the classics my family expects – mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and the infamous turkey. One year, I decided to tackle a sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows. Now, if you think sweet potatoes and marshmallows have no business coexisting, I get it – I was skeptical too. But my kids absolutely loved it. To this day, they ask, “Dad, we’re having the marshmallow yams again, right?” It was a hit that became a part of our permanent spread.
Sometimes, the cooking process becomes just as memorable as the meal itself. A couple of years ago, my son wanted to help me baste the turkey. I’ll admit, I was nervous handing him the baster, but his excitement was priceless. Well, that year, we ended up with an over-basted turkey and a few splatters on the counter, but it was worth it. Now, it’s something we do together every Thanksgiving, and it has turned into one of those dad-son bonding moments I treasure.
Then there’s the post-dinner walk. This began on a whim a few years back when we realized how sluggish we all felt sitting around after the feast. Now, it’s something we make time for every Thanksgiving. We bundle up, grab flashlights if it’s dark, and head out for a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. It’s refreshing and gives us a chance to chat as a family without distractions. Last year, during our walk, my daughter pointed out how the stars seemed brighter that night, and we ended up standing in our driveway afterward, sharing a simple moment of stargazing.
One of my favorite aspects of Thanksgiving is watching how these traditions shape my kids. More importantly, I hope these moments teach them the value of gratitude and connection. Last year, my eldest surprised me by spearheading a “Thanksgiving Share Box” idea at school. Inspired by our family’s thankful mindset, she encouraged her classmates to donate canned goods to families in need. Watching her take our in-home traditions out into the world was one of my proudest dad moments.
Thanksgiving isn’t all perfection and Instagram-worthy tablescapes in our house – and I wouldn’t want it to be. There’ve been burnt pies, forgotten side dishes, and mild chaos when guests arrive early. But what matters most is that we show up for each other, imperfections and all. Ultimately, Thanksgiving reminds me that being a dad isn’t about getting everything right; it’s about showing love in countless small ways.
This November, as we gather around the table, I’ll be holding on to everything this season stands for. From the laughter in the kitchen to the handwritten thankful leaves on our wall, Thanksgiving is a yearly reminder that the best moments are found in the simplicity of togetherness. And if I can pass these experiences down to my kids, I’ll know I’ve done something right.