Thanksgiving is just one day.

[peekawho]

This was discussed in Weight Watchers last year at about this time, and I thought I'd open a discussion about it here, because its a huge problem for many people.

How many of us treat Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the days in between, as a giant, month long holiday from making wise choices?  (and truth be told, it extends past New Years, too!)

Its very easy to say "Oh, forget it.  I have so many parties to go to, so much cooking to do, so many traditional holiday treats...I'll just eat what I want and start again Jan 2nd".    Then, with the best of intentions, we step on that scale Jan 2nd, and faint dead away.  

Don't take that mindset this year!  Thanksgiving is one day.  You don't have to make every yummy, high fat goodie that traditionally accompanied holiday meals of our youth.  (and many of those can be lightened, if you do want to make them!).  There are so many ways to celebrate up the holidays.  Cooking is only one way.  

Start some non-food holiday traditions--volunteer at your local hospital, offer to help out at your church with less fortunate members, visit a nursing home or retirement center and bring some of your extra baked goods...there are many, very meaningful ways to enjoy the holidays that don't involve overeating and sitting around in a turkey-induced coma.  

Its just one day.  Don't let the holidays become an excuse that extends for 6 weeks or more.  

[ChitChatNine]

And, pass this idea along to your friends and family ..... those of us with teens and older children can all benefit by giving help to those in need this Thanksgiving ..

Keep in mind that many can get community service points from their schools and/or great to put onto a college resume -- especially if you start the tradition now and do it for a few years in a row!

It'll teach them, too, about the holidays being just 1 day .. not 6+ weeks.

C~

[Ranaesheart]

Couldn't agree more.  And, by cooking healthier options, you truly care for your family in a healthy way and teach them it just isn't all about food.  And, it's easier and not so crazy!  

When I think back to the "old" cooking, each dish had a stick of butter and gravy on everything .. much easier to cook "light" in both fixings and quantity ... and spend time giving to others, appreciating our blessings and sharing.