Thanksgiving Traditions

Life is short. Make it sweet. Eat dessert first!

That’s become the motto at my house on Thanksgiving and every day. My family might even call it their new favorite holiday tradition! Anyone else a fan of sneaking bites of dessert before dinner? What other etiquette rules are you breaking? Send them my way!

Share gratitude with your loved ones.

We started another new tradition at our table this year, focusing on gratitude. In addition to our usual blessing before eating, I asked each person to write down what they are grateful for, place their paper in a basket, draw another person’s note and read it aloud. At first, my family resisted and teased me for trying to recreate a “Hallmark movie moment.” Eventually, they gave in and it led to some fun dialogue, sweet memories and a new tradition.

Honor family traditions and pass down recipes.

Baking family recipes handed down through the generations are a tradition I cherish year ‘round, but especially during the holidays. It makes me feel close to those relatives who live far away or have passed.

Get the Zabelicious Recipes

My homemade Apple Crisp (pictured at the top on the right) never lasts long, but if it does, is perfect with your coffee the morning after Thanksgiving.

Discover more of my family’s holiday recipes under the food tab; including, Aunt Franny’s Sweet Potato Casserole, Grandpa’s Stuffing, Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread, or my Pumpkin Muffins.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to gather with family around the table and appreciate the opportunity to share special traditions here with you. Before you know it, we’ll be preparing for Christmas.

What traditions do you hold dear during the holidays?