By With Thanksgiving just hours away, I thought I would broach the subject of decorum at family functions. Here is an easy to follow list of my Top 5 Thanksgiving Dinner Dont’s
5. Don’t Knock It Til You’ve Tried It. That macaroni and Jello casserole might be the next best thing since sliced bread. (Doubtful. But a possibility). At minimum, try one of things you have always said you hated like corn pudding, stuffing or cranberry sauce. This year give it a try and your taste buds may reward you.
4. Be a Blessing Not a Burden. Don’t forget to thank the cooks and hosts. Thanksgiving is not an easy undertaking. It’s hours, if not days, of labor in the kitchen all for one special meal. Be grateful to the hands that prepared the meal. A cook has never turned down a compliment.
Additionally, please don’t show up empty handed. With the average cost of a 2012 Thanksgiving meal right at $49.48, this holiday is a sacrifice for many. Check with your host beforehand to see how you can be, “a blessing and not a burden.”
3. The Children’s Table. Children are a joy, but not when they are running out of control in the home. Bring games and activities to keep children occupied. The age-old Children’s Table is not only a thing of the past. It allows kids to be kids and makes it easier on the “grown folks.” Additionally, check with your hosts before bringing pets. Many people have allergies or dot allow animals in their home. When you show up with Scruffy, hosts are left with little options. Always check first.
2. The Doggie Bag Policy. Don’t show up with your Tupperware in tow expecting to eat off of someone else’s food for a week. My grandmother is the number one buffet Tupperware culprit, but even she has the good sense to not expect to take home several plates without at least a prompting from the host. Fixing plates may be an accepted norm in some families, but it’s always important to ask before taking.
1. The Reasoning for the Seasoning. Don’t forget that food as with any meal is only secondary. The actual important part is the fellowship. Take the time to catch up with those you haven’t seen in a while, check on the ill and elderly and don’t forget those less fortunate.
