Thanksgiving Traditions with the BigSpeak Team

Traditions are such a fun part of the holiday season, adding a special touch that makes each family celebration unique, so we asked a few of our fellow team members what their favorite traditions are.

Who doesn’t love the yummy food that comes with Thanksgiving dinner? Whether it’s the classic turkey or, in Cara’s house, quinoa stuffing with plant-based sausage as a vegetarian alternative, topped off with a
chocolate pecan pie, everything sounds delicious. Instead of the usual turkey too, Michelle G. and her family typically roast a duck with a tasty raspberry and pomegranate sauce, but this year they’re switching it up with Cornish Game Hens and oven-roasted potatoes. Both options sound wonderful. And speaking of potatoes, Katelynn’s favorite tradition is getting up early with her sister to peel potatoes and make some good old mashed potatoes. With Katelynn’s cooking skills, we can only imagine how delicious they are! Another standout is Nicole’s mom’s homemade rolls, made with potato flakes for an extra fluffy, delicious texture. Of course, no Thanksgiving meal is complete without pie, and Jennifer’s favorite tradition is making pies with her mom the day before and I can’t think of anything better.

While food plays such a big part of the holiday, sometimes it’s just about fun and games with loved ones. Max’s favorite tradition growing up was playing a fierce game of football, cousins vs cousins, and I’ll bet it got competitive! Eleanor says that Thanksgiving is a week for jigsaw puzzles, while Tracy’s family picks a new game each year, with this year’s choice being Five Crowns. Erin’s favorite game is cribbage. She says what started off as a friendly game with her grandfather has grown into a cherished ritual spanning several generations, with her boys now joining in and adding some fierce competition. Bethany and her family bring on the laughter with opening party crackers that have small toys and jokes inside, such a fun idea!

Thanksgiving being about gratitude and giving back, Julie and her family open their home to someone that doesn’t have anywhere to go.Amy D.‘s family takes leftovers, layers them in red solo cups, and brings them downtown to those in need. What a beautiful way to spread kindness! Mikaela’s family shows gratitude with a tradition of a gratitude jar, where each family member writes down what they’re thankful for every year—and they can also revisit past gratitudes. Nicole’s family puts a unique twist on the tradition of sharing gratitude by having everyone mention one
thing they’re thankful for and one challenge that helped them learn and grow. Thank you for sharing your unique traditions team!