What Are You Thankful For?

As Thanksgiving, one of my favorite holidays, rolls around the corner, I think it's important that we all take a moment to stop and give thanks. It's amazing how one holiday can capture so many specific feelings, traditions, and moments. This is why I am thankful for Thanksgiving. The holiday brings together a nation, regardless of religious beliefs, political viewpoints, or other various issues. What I find so interesting about this holiday is that even though it is celebrated across the country, it's never celebrated in the same way. In turn, I believe that Thanksgiving can reveal numerous aspects of one's identity.

So, in hopes of building my own identity throughthis blog, I'd like to share my own Thanksgiving traditions. Every year, I spend time with my dad's side of the family. My parents and I travel to Madison, WI to visit my dad's hometown. I look forward to seeing my grandparents, aunt, uncles, and cousins. We bond together over our interests, especially food. From turkey to pie, my family devours the Thanksgiving feast like it is nobody's business. My favorite food of Thanksgiving is my grandmother's fudge bottom pie. I'm not lying when I say it's addictive. Last year, I ate 6 pieces! Hopefully I can control myself more this year.

In addition to food, I also enjoy bonding with my older cousin. Despite us being six years apart, we always find something to chat about...fashion especially. We compare outfits, go shopping on Black Friday, and share our "wish lists" for the winter holidays. I love spending this time with my cousin because Thanksgiving is one of the rare opportunities that I have to see her.

All in all, Thanksgiving is a time for bonding. Whether your family bonds over television, clothes, food, or anything else, take the time to cherish it. I believe that this holiday is the best time to set our priorities straight, and realize that family is one of the most important parts of our life.

My parents, cousin, and I bonding over break in London last year. (via my own camera)