Now, as Thanksgiving season approaches, the most repeated phrase: “I am grateful for…” fills the air constantly during this time of year. A season where giving thanks is on people’s minds, a variety of foods are passed around the table, and appreciating the little things becomes top priority. From there, Christmas trees are set up (if they aren’t in people’s houses already), menorahs are put out, and the true holiday season begins. Families come together and participate in yearly traditions. At North, many students have specific activities custom to their holiday seasons, whether it is a special food, an annual activity, or specific decorating.
The large feast that falls on the last Thursday of November brings families together as long as politics and finance stay out of the conversation. Senior, Gabrielle Joy Sullivan, has a special food that sits on the table every year at Thanksgiving. It holds a special place in her heart and will continue to be a unique tradition for years to come. “We have this one food called sully scramble, which is eggs, bread crumbs, and a couple of spices. It’s basically crumble and spices mixed together,” she said.
Of course, to many but not all, Thanksgiving is the “official” start to Christmas. The spirit of spending time with close relatives results in many of them visiting family and friends during the week to participate in holiday-themed games, dinners, and traditions. Sophomore Rosie Wade always spends time with her cousins during Thanksgiving break, and the festivities she participates in kick off that holiday spirit. “My cousins and I have a get-together, and we play Christmas games like Secret Santa,” she said.
For some, right after the turkey and pie are off the table, the dishes are cleaned up, and the family is gone. But we all know where they went: the Christmas tree farm. Though many people decorate for this holiday before Thanksgiving, many also set up decorations around the house after the big feast. Freshman Mano Smith loves to adorn the house with Christmas decorations and even does something special with his siblings to go above and beyond the traditional Christmas decor. “My siblings and I always decorate each other’s bedroom doors in my house for the holidays,” he said.
December is fast approaching, and by the time Thanksgiving is over, calendars are taken over by parties, gift exchanges, charity, and travel. It is time to embrace the seasonal festivities and give thanks for all that the season has to offer. So order your presents and plan out what to bring to “friendsgiving,” because before you know it, New Year’s has passed and another holiday season is in the history books yet again.
