Happy Thanksgiving Day!

To those who celebrate!🥂

Photo by krakenimages on Unsplash

As a born-and-bred Nigerian, I’ve developed an obsession with Thanksgiving Day. I first learned about it, most likely through movies, about seven years ago. Since I love Hollywood films so much, I often see the culture and festivities that are included into their stories.

Since discovering what Thanksgiving is all about, I’ve looked forward to the season every year. In my home, we kind of have something quite similar to Thanksgiving Day celebrated on the first of every year, but celebrating Thanksgiving day itself is a tradition I hope to experience someday. For now, though, I’m writing this newsletter from my hostel room at university, without the aroma of food filling the air or the sound of family laughing and sharing jokes. Still, the thought of it brings me so much joy and anticipation for what the future holds.

Let me tell you a little about Thanksgiving Day…

Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in the United States celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. It is a day for expressing gratitude, spending time with loved ones, and reflecting on blessings. Rooted in historical and cultural significance, it has evolved into one of the most cherished holidays in the country.

The tradition of Thanksgiving varied across colonies and states until President Abraham Lincoln, in 1863, proclaimed it a national holiday during the Civil War as a gesture of unity and gratitude.

Now, to my favourite part… Why do I love the tagged day so much?

1. Family Gatherings
   Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to come together, often around a shared meal, to celebrate and express gratitude. If you know me well, you’d know how much I value family. I come from a place rooted in love and meaningful connections. Alongside my family, I’m fortunate to have a close circle of friends I hold dear to my heart. Having them all together for a celebration is something I really love and always look forward to.

2. The Feast
   The traditional Thanksgiving meal includes roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie. By now, you can probably tell just how deep my obsession goes. I especially look forward to seeing scenes of the eldest daughter and the mother cooking together, sharing recipes, and preparing various meals. One thing that always stands out is the roasting of a whole marinated turkey—such a classic moment, haha!

   So, the next time you watch a family movie, especially one set close to Christmas that mentions Thanksgiving Day, I hope you think of me. 😊

3. Acts of Kindness
   This is something I genuinely love to do, and Thanksgiving inspires giving back, with many people volunteering at food drives, soup kitchens, and other charitable initiatives to support those in need.

4. Expressions of Gratitude
   At the heart of Thanksgiving is the practice of gratitude. Families often take a moment before the meal to share what they are thankful for, fostering a spirit of reflection and appreciation.

5. Thanksgiving also involves other activities like parade, football e.t.c. Another sweet thing I love about Thanksgiving Day is how it signals the start of the holiday season. And, of course, I can’t forget that Black Friday follows right after! Who wouldn’t love the chance to shop at discounted prices? Haha, definitely not me!

I hope my excitement about Thanksgiving Day shines through as you read this. And yes, you’ve probably guessed it already—if I had the chance to japa, where would I love to go? Well, let’s just say... it’s our little secret! 😉

To those of us who celebrate, happy thanksgiving!🦃🥂💕

Today’s song is Alaska by Caiola.

Listened to it for the very first time today, and I fell in love with it.

Shout out to the person that sent me this song.🥂