The holidays can be the most amazing time but it can also be the most stressful. Thanksgiving is by far my most favorite holiday. There’s tons of food and wine and all of my family and extended family comes to celebrate. Pretty sure this year we’re having 40 people at my Mom’s house for the big feast. Although this brings tons of joy, there is that age old joke about families ripping each other apart on Thanksgiving Day. Aunt Dorris says something stupid while she’s 7 glasses of wine deep and uh oh now Uncle Sal is being creepy again. Luckily for me, my family hasn’t had any drama at the Thanksgiving table. Maybe a few dirty looks here and there when someone brings up politics but I think we all have learned that’s a big NO on this holiday.
However, one of my friends (and I’m keeping their identity private) told me about a time her family legit had an all out brawl at their Thanksgiving gathering. I hear so many stories about families having the best day and then BOOM, Little Carrie is throwing mashed potatoes at her cousin across the room. I guess sometimes it’s inevitable that when you put tons of people from the same blood line into a room, you might get a few quarrels here or there.
With that being said, I’m going to lay down some tips on how to avoid fighting with family over Thanksgiving.
1. Avoid talking about politics.
Just don’t do it. No matter whose side you are on, you’re gonna piss someone off and truthfully, everyone is entitled to their own opinion so just don’t bring up yours while people are trying to eat.
2. Don’t bother the people watching football.
The football games on Thanksgiving are always super exciting and people who are football fans don’t want to miss this. Leave them be unless it’s an emergency.
3. Unless you’re helping cook, stay out of the kitchen.
This is and always has been a rule in my house and I actually understand it. When my mom is cooking she has a million things going on at once. The last thing she needs is someone in her way while she’s chopping, mixing, baking or perfecting one of her dishes. If you’re helping, pick a spot and stay there.
4. Laugh your way out of everything.
Seriously. If you find yourself in an awkward conversation with your wacky aunt you haven’t seen in years, or your constantly being asked uncomfortable questions (Why are you still single? When are you going to have babies? You look thin, are you eating? You put on a few are you pregnant? How’s that hot friend of yours?), just starting uncontrollably laughing.
5. Bring crafts for the kids.
I love kids. They’re my absolute favorite. I have an 8 year old step son who I adore, BUT kids can be a lot, especially on Thanksgiving and sometime they have their super annoying moments and most of the time it’s because they’re bored. So when your family brings their kids, have something already planned for them to do to keep them busy. This will not only make your family members grateful that they can finally chug a beer after that annoying 2 hour car ride, but the kids will be occupied and quiet for hours. Side note: by crafts I mean coloring books, gingerbread houses, etc-DO NOT set all the kids up with an iPad or they won’t talk to each other and you’ll be sorry when it’s time for dinner. We’re leaving all electronics at home tomorrow!
6. Stay off your phone.
Don’t be that person whose on their phone the entire day. Someone WILL say something. Also, it’s rude.
7. Don’t use the word “moist” when describing the food.
Everyone hates this word and it’ll ruin the entire day and everyones meal and then everyone will hate you.
8. If all else fails-buddy up with the person who supplied the alcohol.
No big explanation needed for this one. Wine is my go to on Thanksgiving. I already picked up 3 bottles of red for tomorrow.
Thanksgiving is a time for catching up with family, relaxing while the games on and having some drinks. It’s about being Thankful that you have each other. Sometimes families have some drama from years ago and they carry it with them to the dinner table….DON’T. It’s not worth it. At the end of the day, ALL FAMILIES put the “Fun” in Dysfunctional, so embrace it!
I hope everyone has a happy and drama free Thanksgiving tomorrow with lots of yummy food and overflowing amounts of wine!!!
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