Growing Up with Thanksgiving: A Family Tradition

Growing Up with Thanksgiving: A Family Tradition

Growing up, Thanksgiving was more than just a holiday—it was a grand family event, a cherished tradition that brought us together year after year. The excitement began early on Thanksgiving morning with Popsie's breakfast, a beloved ritual that kick-started our holiday festivities. This meal was a staple, an essential part of almost every holiday gathering, setting the stage for the day’s activities.

As we grew older, Thanksgiving mornings evolved into a blend of tradition and youthful competition. After enjoying Popsie's breakfast, we’d head to Hillside Junior High for a spirited game of the Turkey Bowl. Despite my aversion to sports and the cold, I always looked forward to this game—not for the play itself, but for the boys who showed up to participate. The game was a social event as much as a sporting one.

Returning home, a much-needed nap would often follow. Our Thanksgiving dinners didn’t usually start at the typical 2 or 3 PM. Given the substantial breakfast we had earlier, our festivities would kick off in the evening, with most Westover family events starting around 7 PM. We’d head back to Momsie and Popsie’s house, where the real Thanksgiving dinner awaited.

The dinner table was a sight to behold, often adorned with an array of traditional Thanksgiving dishes—turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, rolls, gravy, veggies, and of course, jello. Over the years, as our family continued to grow, seating arrangements became a challenge. We tried various setups, but accommodating everyone became increasingly difficult.

One memorable year, when our cousin had to work at JJ North’s, we enjoyed our Thanksgiving dinner at their buffet. This change of pace was a hit, particularly with Mom and the aunts, as it meant no cooking or dishes to contend with.

After dinner, if we were lucky, Santa would make a special appearance by knocking on the windows and performing a silly dance. As kids, we loved seeing Santa, and his visit was a delightful reminder that the holiday season was about to start. Santa's appearances didn’t end with Thanksgiving; he would continue to visit every Sunday dinner until Christmas, adding a touch of magic to each week.

As the evening wound down, the older cousins—those 12 and up—would head out to the movies while the parents stayed behind to handle cleanup. I recall watching "Harry Potter" a couple of years in a row, a fun and festive way to end the day.

The week following Thanksgiving was equally filled with family activities. Whether we were hitting the mall, having slumber parties, or just hanging out at Momsie and Popsie’s house, every moment was a chance to bond with the Westover clan. These holidays were not just about the food and traditions, but about the people who made each Thanksgiving special—a time of togetherness that we cherished deeply.