You’ll note that the next few “personal” posts from me will be centering around a common theme: Giving Thanks. You see, Monday is a dual holiday. In the United States, “Columbus Day” is celebrated (and let’s not get me going on that, okay? I’m not a great fan of that European, but that’s me.) In Canada, however, it is Thanksgiving. You know, the day of turkeys and stuffing and sides and overeating and sitting back with your pants unbuttoned, questioning why you had to have that third slice of pie, that second helping of “green been casserole” (which also is an evil concoction, but I digress), or that extra sweet potato.

I jest, of course. Many of us have learned to not over indulge, instead, taking our cues from the true meaning of the day. Giving thanks for all that we have been fortunate enough to have earned through hard work, for the ones we love who gather near, and for those who we love, but have passed on.  I have a tradition in my household, where no matter how many there are gathered for dinner, we “turn down” a place setting:

The purpose of the “turn down”? It represents those who have passed on, as well as those who are unable, due to illness or distance, to celebrate with us on whatever special occasion it is. Only the cup is turned down, the rest of the dishes go unused. I started this tradition when I was in my teens, and am now (mumble, mumble)… okay, I’m 39. But it’s a way to remind everyone who is present to always be thankful for all that we have.