Thanksgiving Day, I’m finding out, is less about giving thanks and all about maintaining family traditions.
This year, I thought, I’d chuck just one tried and true family custom for a new one, but this has ruffled quite a few feathers in our household. For the past some years, on the fourth Thursday every November, I’ve been waking up before the rooster crows to slave over a bird that never bothers to thank me. So, this year, I’ve decided to take the advice of some fine experts who insist I ditch the annual “martyrdom” and instead enlist the help of other Indians and Pilgrims to cook up the golden bird.
I didn't realize I'd be taking on the role of the fabled "Little Red Hen." I asked my mom and my younger sisters if they would be honored to take over the turkey duty. They all said they lacked the pluck to handle a wild fowl. Running out of options, I volunteered my hubby. He’s usually a good sport but he didn’t like being bagged and looked for an escape, including soliciting Obama to consider him for this year’s presidential pardon.
But faced with the prospect of a turkey-less Thanksgiving, he decided to get back in the game and offered to go round up a gobbler. As he ran out the door, he asked, “So, should I get a 40- or a 50-pounder?” I was just thankful hunting season on Long Island was off to a slow start.
Fearing the worst -- no bird to grace my dinner table on T-day -- I sat down to contemplate on alternatives. I could save a turkey and send out for pizza, cook a duck, or a chicken. I wouldn’t have to face two weeks of turkey leftovers and sandwiches. But no matter how you slice it, Thanksgiving just isn’t Thanksgiving without the turkey.
As I chastised myself for listening to the experts and was about to set out to the market to buy a bird and embrace martyrdom, my cousin called to talk turkey. And she offered to take care of the big bird for the big feast. “Golden,” I said, ever grateful for her help. Now I can sleep in on Thanksgiving Day while coz slaves away in the kitchen. And I hope my hubby will be back in time from his hunting session to carve the bird.
Clarification
A reader alerted me to updated statistics on teen texting (see previous post). CNN.com reports that the average teen sends 3,339 texts per month. Thanks reader!!
