For many, many moons, I have been participating in “Friendsgiving” instead of Thanksgiving with blood relatives (I choose this terminology because “family” means something different for me).

I barely remember the last, official Thanksgiving I went to at Sandy’s (step-grandma). I brought The Son, both my parents and brother were there, and I don’t recall if Ike (abusive grandfather) was still alive or present at the time. The Son always retreated to the guest bedroom during this type of gathering, as he was uncomfortable with the crowd and noise. Sandy had a handful of church friends over.

I was never comfortable at those gatherings. The food was good, sure, but the conversations were excruciating. I had (have) nothing in common politically or religiously with any of them, so oftentimes I’d just sit and eat in silence, not participating unless I was directly asked something (which, thankfully, had nothing to do with those topics).

When The Dementor and I were together and moved to Missouri, I met and made friends with Raspin (nickname). He unofficially adopted me as his little sister and I was welcomed into his friend group. The Dementor eventually came along and we started playing D&D. When Thanksgiving came, I did not go back to Arkansas… instead, we were invited and went to Raspin’s, where we ate, laughed, played games, and just had a generally fantastic time. I was awakened to a whole new dynamic and I have not looked back.

The following years of Thanksgiving were spent anywhere I was welcome with my chosen family/friends and I have not regretted it a single bit. I want to spend Thanksgiving with people I love and care about, with good conversation and fun.

And this year is no exception. We are going to Curly’s (nickname list here) for Friendsgiving, where the whole gang and then some will be. There might be some Uno: No Mercy playing, because Javelin LOVES Uno. There will be good food and good conversation, for sure.

Anyway, hope everyone has a wonderful day today!