Even though I am *ahem* 28 years old, my childhood traditions are still extremely important to me, especially around the holidays. Since the Mysterious Mr. C and I are starting to split the holidays between our families, I have gotten a little less obstinate about certain things – like having cinnamon rolls on Thanksgiving morning and lasagna for Christmas Eve dinner – but there is one tradition I refuse to give up: watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in my pajamas.
I don’t know exactly what it is about the parade, especially since I recognize fewer celebrities (or at least the singers) each year, but there is something about watching Tom Turkey and Santa Claus cross in front of the 34th Street storefront that gets me ready for the holidays. Perhaps it’s the fact that it always takes me back to our house in Pittsburgh, where I would eat my cinnamon rolls in my little nook while my parents worked on our Thanksgiving feast – a quieter, simpler time. Or maybe it’s because the day is all about family and actually slowing down before the craziness of the shopping season begins (or at least it should be). Whatever it is, it is sacred to me and I can’t think of a better way to start my morning.
So from our home to yours, Happy Thanksgiving readers!! And to all of my Jewish friends, a very Happy Hanukkah as well!
