I want to share a personal message to my readers as I start prepping for my favorite meal of the year. A healthy attitude and lots of gratitude — these are the best ingredients for the Thanksgiving holiday.
First and foremost, be thankful for your Health. Don’t take it for granted and be responsible for yourself. Throw out any self-defeating attitudes with the turkey carcass. Next, enjoy real food this holiday. We live in a country where food is abundant. Be thankful for it, take the time to make the real stuff, and simply enjoy it. Keep traditions going — Do fuss over certain foods! Every family has “secret recipes” and favorite dishes. That is why I will be making my dad’s amazing creamed onions and my husband’s grandmother’s Caribbean sweet potatoes (think rum, lime juice and spices.) I want my kids to look forward to them every year and eventually learn how to make them.
Many families have traditions of doing nothing but eating on Thanksgiving, but the eating often doesn’t start until well after noon. My first advice is “do not starve” before the meal. Eat a good breakfast — this will ensure the cooks have energy and may prevent some low-blood-sugar-induced family feuds! Another tip is to take a break for air. The meal will taste even better after getting fresh air and the blood circulating, so while the turkey’s cooking and the football game is boring, go for a family walk or play your own game of flag football. Another idea is to run some races in the yard or around the house. Kids and adults love this one!
Now I hope you’re ready to eat, drink and count your blessings — not calories! Happy Thanksgiving.