It's been a while, and for good reason. So much happening. Totally overwhelmed. Thanksgiving came and went. There was a time that my Thanksgiving was embraced with and surrounded by love and sharing. Nowday's it seems it has become a day of eating with family. The best part of Thanksgiving Day has always been watching the Macy's parade. Love that it has become a showcase for the Broadway shows, and musical talents of High School Marching Bands. The magnificent balloons have always been so cool to see. Popular musical performances with the culmination of Santa making his arrival have always made my heart swell. I love to start the Christmas Holiday when Santa passes Macy's front door by hanging my first Christmas decoration. Black Friday for me, an avid shopper, means finding a wreath and hanging it on the front door. Shopping with crowds does not in the least appeal to me. A day of relaxation is much more alluring to me. So, what has Thanksgiving become? A day where Vin and I travel to his parent's house, and eat like pigs. There is so much food, it is downright sinful. The meal starts with a pasta dish. This year it was lasagna. The main course is not just turkey, but turkey and ham with all the trimmings. Yep, all calorie laden sides that will pack your tummy, and also your jeans the next day. Sweet potato casserole, homemade, amazingly delish mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, green beans, home made stuffing, applesauce, and more! EAT! EAT! EAT! Does this reflect the meaning of Thanksgiving? Deserts are an entire tableful of home made, pies, pudding, pastries, nuts, cookies and a homemade cheesecake with various toppings. Wow! Are we able to really eat all this? No need to answer, you know we can! Coffee, wine and whatever other beverage you may desire are also freely poured and enjoyed. O! at the end of the meal, salad is served! Why at the end? No idea, it is the way it's done, is all I know. But usually everyone is so full, the salad goes by the wayside. LOL
Now here is my version of how I would like to celebrate. A quite day of reflection upon what I am thankful for. Not saying I don't want to participate in the tradition of eating turkey. I love turkey, but there are so many healthful sides that can be prepared. I would love to dress as a pilgrim and eat fried corn, and whatever else was first enjoyed by the settlers, but in moderation. There are so many great veggies, and they can be cooked in ways that are healthy and tasty. Sharing conversation is also important to me. No one should have to do all the work. The idea of "pot luck", done thru sharing ideas and recipes would suit me. Entertaining is something I no longer do since the house is small, and we are far from everyone. We always go to my inlaw's home and eat, visit and go home. It doesn't seem fair. There are others that should "take the reigns", or at least participate in the preparations. This seems to be happening to a certain extent, but exclusions exist.
Thinking that next year will be different. We are in the midst of spiffing the house for sale, as we will be relocating. A new house, with room to entertain. Yes, it's true, we will be even further away, but it is what it is. My journey took a sharp turn after Turkey day this year. Being off track for sometime now, I have become refocused, and am giving it my best. My sadness over the recent loss of my cat Sassy, has not lessened, and sometimes is even worse, but I am learning that this is acceptable. It is OK to be sad, it is OK to cry, but not OK to revert to eating sweets like they're going out of style! I have shopped for greens and fruits, and have an abundance available. These are so much better to grab when an emotional eating binge rears it's ugly head. I am not unaware there are ways to cope with emotional eating, but sometimes giving in satiates the need to overindulge. Having correct and healthy choices available is key. Thinking about goals, and consequences must stay in the forefront. Wanting to feel well, and good about yourself will keep you centered. Well, I have blogged, and hope that others may identify with my journey. We each have our own journey, and will accomplish our goals in our own proper and correct time, but there are many similarities that bind us together. Have a great weekend all! Do your best, and you will succeed!
Please share your thoughts, and great healthy recipes! I will do so next post. Thank you.
No comments:
Post a Comment