Every Thanksgiving since I was born, my grandmother, Mary June, has hosted Thanksgiving and cooked the entire traditional Thanksgiving spread. I remember waking up to the smell of various sides roasting in the oven. After offering to help and inevitably being turned down, I went to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in my grandmother’s room. My family would then begin trickling in after the parade concluded, sneaking deviled eggs and my grandmother’s out of this world fudge. Only after my grandmother announced it was time to eat, we would form a line and tower our paper plates with turkey, green bean casserole, deviled eggs, ham, candied sweet potatoes, turnips, etc. Every year someone asks if the turnips are mashed potatoes. Every. Single. Year. And I love it. The delectable food was followed by watching football until the adults began nodding off post feast.

Because I am still healing, I’m not able to travel to take part in our family tradition. My grandmother has an event to attend this year in connection with her community at the senior citizen’s center so she won’t be making her traditional menu. I think this is the first time in my life that I remember her not making Thanksgiving. I’m feeling very nostalgic today and wish I was at my grandmother’s catching up with my relatives.

Whether you’re taking part in your usual family traditions, hosting yourself, or not celebrating at all, I hope your day is filled with family, warmth, and joy.

Warmly,

Mae

P.S. The history of Thanksgiving is truly horrific for the indigenous peoples of America. It was a day when so many innocent people were slaughtered for their land. I love the warmth of Thanksgiving, but we can’t celebrate without honoring the lives lost that day.