🦃 Giving Thanksgiving Its Due

Poor little Thanksgiving often gets overshadowed by the glitter and excitement of Christmas. But let’s pause and give it the love it deserves. For my family, Thanksgiving was always a big deal—especially for my dad. It was his favorite holiday. And my mom, who will readily tell you she’s not the best cook in the world, somehow makes the best Thanksgiving meal. Her turkey slow-cooked in a roaster on the stove, and her stuffing? Out of this world.

But times change. My dad is no longer with us, and my mom isn’t able to cook anymore. Thanksgiving isn’t what it used to be. It’s evolved into something else—but I still try to make it special.

Last year, I cooked my own turkey for the first time and hosted dinner at my house. I’d been out of town right before the holiday and ordered what I thought was a pre-cooked turkey. My daughter picked it up, and when I finally got around to prepping, I pulled out the bird and realized—much to my surprise—it was raw. A whole-ass raw turkey. Cue the timeline shift. But we laughed. My mom came over, along with extended family, new family and friends, and despite the hiccups, it turned out to be a great Thanksgiving. Different, yes—but still meaningful.

🧡 How to Prepare for Thanksgiving When Traditions Shift

If you’re lucky enough to still have your traditional family Thanksgiving intact, count that among your blessings. If things have changed, here are some ways to embrace the holiday differently:

🥘 Embrace the Shortcuts

Pre-order your meal. Unlike me, double-check that your turkey is actually cooked. Many places offer pre-cooked turkeys, hams, and sides.

Skip the kitchen marathon. If cooking isn’t your thing—or if you just want to watch the Macy’s Parade in peace—let someone else do the heavy lifting.

👩‍👧‍👦 Celebrate Small

For smaller families or solo celebrations, QVC (yes, I said it!) has individual bacon-wrapped turkey breasts, sides, and desserts delivered to your door. My mom loved QVC, and now I do too. It’s my go-to for everything from clothes to holiday meals.

🥂 Host a Friendsgiving

Gather your friend group and share the food duties. Everyone brings a dish, and you bring the laughter.

💛 Volunteer and Connect

If you’re without a family or friend group this year, consider volunteering. You’ll give back to your community and might just meet people who become part of your story.

🍂 Final Thoughts from Kicking the Chaos

Don’t take it too seriously. If you burn the turkey or discover it’s raw at the last minute—laugh. It’ll make for a great story next year.

Pre-plan or pre-order to keep things smooth.

Remember the reason for Thanksgiving. Even if it’s been a rough year, try to find a little gratitude in your heart.

From all of us at Kicking the Chaos, Happy Thanksgiving. We’re thankful for each of you.