In defense of Thanksgiving

Hey all, my apologies for not blogging more frequently (or at all!) in October. That month had some very personal difficult issues for me, so every time I began to write, I found myself somewhat overwhelmed. Now I am at a place where I can go back to blogging...

Yesterday was Halloween. I love Halloween! Costumes, candy, and celebrations are always something to look forward to. It's so much fun to get dressed up and to go out (this year I was Miss Viola Swamp from the kids' book Miss Nelson Is Missing! and I was pretty darn evil, if you ask me). After Halloween, I like to pick up any discounted candy or accoutrements, as they are all on sale.

HOWEVER...I was so not too pleased when I was shopping this past September, early-ish in the month. I went to the mall, and what did I see? Not back to school deals, not Halloween decor, not Thanksgiving, but rather...CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS! Yes! Three whole months before Christmas, and the trees and wreaths abounded. In October, when I was picking up trick-or-treat candy to pass out, I saw Santas and reindeer all over. Even in some of the small shops like Claire's or Hot Topic. Now it is November, and every store has Christmas merchandise in it.

Now don't get me wrong. I am no Grinch, and I absolutely love Christmas. However...

WHAT IN THE WORLD HAPPENED TO THANKSGIVING???

Did somebody forget that there's another holiday coming up? And no, I do not mean the Eve of Black Friday. I mean a day for celebrating with family and friends. Expressing an attitude of gratitude. (And yes, I know the actual origins of the Thanksgiving holiday were pretty far-removed from the rosy picture you get in grade school, but I do think a day dedicated to gratitude and appreciation is important.)

What happened to Thanksgiving???

For a thankful revel, this will not do. At all. I hereby declare that I will not put up any Christmas decor until I have finished enjoying Thanksgiving. I will not put on any Christmas music until turkey day is done. I will wear my turkey and cornucopia pins rather than anything that seems like it's a month too early. And I will make it a point to enjoy November's holiday for what it is as opposed to rushing through it on the way to Christmas. I will be a friend of Thanksgiving and give it the appreciation it deserves.

You got to dance with them what brung you

Dear Molly*,

We might have been without you for 4 years, but I miss you and your incisive commentary still.

I just wonder what you would say about all the crazy political and social happenings that have been going on in the four years since you left us. Wherever you are, I hope that you are at peace and that your influence lives on.

Peace be with you, sister.

In solidarity,

Revel

*Molly Ivins (1932-2007), political columnist, journalist, and progressive extraordinaire. I would read her column religiously from 2000-2007 and own all of her books.