I’ve always been a big fan of Thanksgiving. What’s not to love? Apple stuffing, football, a sense of coziness, and the anticipation of the holiday season. But let’s be honest, being a mom has given me an even bigger appreciation and admiration for the holiday.
Sure, no matter what the holiday is, when you’re the ring leader of your family circus, it’s a lot. But Thanksgiving is our holiday, Moms. Here’s why…
1. No Gifts. None. Zero. Zilch.
Let’s start with the biggest win. There are no presents to buy, wrap, hide, or stress over. There is no comparing gift piles, and there is certainly no wish lists from pre-teens that think you’re a money tree. Thanksgiving is the one holiday where moms aren’t racing around Target at 10 p.m. because they forgot a stocking stuffer or batteries for a toy that will be overstimulated and ready to be tossed by January 1.
2. No Elf on the Shelf Shenanigans (or Easter bunny tricks or costumes to buy)
Every year it starts the same. Yay! The Elf is back! By mid-December, the one giving you nightly panic attacks. Thanksgiving doesn’t require an elf. No tiny messes to “stage,” no last-minute panics at 11:47 p.m. and think “We forgot to move him!” The only thing that moves overnight on Thanksgiving is the turkey from the fridge to the oven!
3. The Kids Learn About Gratitude
Thanksgiving is the one time of year we can try to teach our kids gratitude without sounding like a motivational speaker. We sit around the table and ask, “What are you thankful for?” Sure, they most likely will say “My tablet, ““The dog,” and “Candy.” But deep down, I truly believe that the important lesson of gratitude is sticking with them.
4. It’s a One-Day Wonder
Unlike other holidays that take weeks to plan (looking at you, Christmas), Thanksgiving is over in one wonderful carb-soaked day. No month-long prep. No endless wrapping paper aftermath. Once you clean up, collapse on the couch, and start to bask in the satisfaction of survival, it’s all over with some new memories made.
