As Thanksgiving approaches, Marriotts Ridge students look forward to celebrating with their family and friends. Thanksgiving provides a break from regular activities as school and most jobs are closed for the holiday.
The beginning of the school year is difficult for many students. Getting back into a routine of managing school work and sports can be challenging. The first major break of the school year comes for Thanksgiving. Students and teachers look forward to the opportunity to reset and refocus for the remainder of the semester.
“Throughout the year I often get bogged down with schoolwork, especially at the beginning of the year. It’s a relief to finally have some time off to enjoy myself and spend time with my family,” senior Yeale Biruk said.
Many people have Thanksgiving traditions that they look forward to. Some families have activities that they do every year, making the most of the cool fall weather.
“My favorite memory is playing in the turkey bowl with my family. We played two hand touch, but it gets very competitive,” science teacher Mr. Lowe stated.
Other students value the food of Thanksgiving more than activities. Thanksgiving provides people with an excuse to eat and make foods that they might otherwise feel guilty about.
“The two special recipes I make for Thanksgiving are cranberry stuffing and sweet potato casserole with a pecan crust. I really enjoy cooking for my family, so I put in a lot of effort,” culinary teacher Mrs. Upson said.
Thanksgiving is a time for families to bond around great food. Most people make the traditional turkey and stuffing, but some people take pride in their recipes and have taken the time to perfect them. Some families have passed recipes down from generation to generation, so upholding the excellence of the food is important.
“Every year my mom makes her signature stuffing. It is the same recipe her mother made, so she was taught by the best. My whole family agrees that the stuffing is the best part of the celebration so my mom continues to put her best effort into it every year,” senior Michael Machiran shared.
But behind all the fun and memories, students should be using Thanksgiving to recognize the people and things that they are grateful for.
“I’m grateful for my family, specifically my brother Bryce, and my friends. Thanksgiving is a much needed opportunity to reflect on all of my blessings because I find myself looking past all of the things I am grateful for,” freshman Boden Pistorio said.
Families gather on Thanksgiving to spend time together. Some families that don’t live near each other may only see their relatives a few times a year, but Thanksgiving usually brings them together.
Thanksgiving is one of the many things that makes fall special. Students enjoy the days they get off, and they make memories they will cherish for the rest of their lives. The combination of family, friends and food makes Thanksgiving one of the most special holidays.