DAILY DOSE OF GRATITUDE

As we gather around our tables with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, I wanted to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you.

Today, let's reflect on the abundance of blessings we share and express our gratitude for the journey we've undertaken together.

🌟 Gratitude for Each Other: I am profoundly thankful for the collective strength and dedication that each of you brings to our team. Your unique contributions enrich our shared endeavors and make our workplace a vibrant and dynamic space.

🤝 Celebrating Team Achievements: Our shared successes, both big and small, are a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines us. Today, let's celebrate not only the milestones we've reached but also the journey that has brought us here.

🌱 Wisdom in Challenges: Challenges have been met with resilience and a collective wisdom that propels us forward. Each obstacle has been an opportunity for growth, and I am grateful for the strength we find in overcoming them together.

💡 Appreciating the Present: On this day of gratitude, let's savor the present moment—the laughter, the camaraderie, and the shared joys. The richness of our lives is magnified in these moments.

May your Thanksgiving be filled with warmth, love, and a deep sense of appreciation for the blessings we've received. I am truly grateful to work alongside such an exceptional team.

Happy Thanksgiving!

— Wayne Jensen

Presented by:

Wannemacher Jensen Architects, Inc.

THANKSGIVING

A Timeless Tradition of Togetherness, Gratitude, and the Simple Joys of Life

Thanksgiving holds a special place in our hearts, providing a haven of simplicity amidst the whirlwind of life's demands.

Unlike the bustling preparations and expectations that accompany other holidays, Thanksgiving stands out as a cherished day centered around the warmth of family and friends.

In a world where the calendar is dotted with events that often pull us in different directions, Thanksgiving remains a steadfast reminder of the joy found in shared moments. It invites us to pause, appreciate, and revel in the company of those we hold dear. With no elaborate dressing up, no cards to send, and no gifts to exchange, Thanksgiving frees us from the trappings of commercialized celebrations, allowing us to savor the genuine essence of the day.

A Feast of Togetherness

At the heart of Thanksgiving is the timeless tradition of gathering around the dining table to share a meal. This simple act brings us back to an era when families connected more frequently, passing dishes, carving the main course, and exchanging stories. Thanksgiving serves as a tribute to these moments of togetherness, a reminder of the strength found in shared laughter, conversation, and a mutual appreciation for life's blessings.

In a fast-paced world where busy schedules often pull families in different directions, the formal act of sitting down together for a meal has become a rare occurrence. Thanksgiving, however, reclaims the sanctity of the dining room table, providing a space for the joy of unity to flourish.

Embracing Thankfulness

Beyond the festive feast, Thanksgiving encourages an attitude of gratitude. It prompts us to reflect on the often-overlooked aspects of our lives, fostering an awareness of the abundance that surrounds us. While the day itself may be marked by formal expressions of thanks, the true power lies in its ability to inspire a continuous practice of gratitude.

A Timeless Tradition of Contentment

Thanksgiving serves as a timeless reminder that thankfulness goes hand in hand with happiness. Gratitude becomes a cleansing force, sweeping away negativity, pettiness, and resentment. In the act of being thankful, we create space for joy, contentment, and a renewed perspective on life's inherent goodness.

As Thanksgiving approaches, let it be more than a single day of celebration. Let it be a catalyst for embracing simplicity, cherishing togetherness, and fostering an ongoing sense of gratitude that extends far beyond the holiday season. May this Thanksgiving be a celebration of the fundamental joys of life—a grateful gathering that transcends time and tradition.

Table Talk

From Politics to Pop Culture, Your Ultimate Guide to Spice Up Conversations and Keep the Feast Lively!

Thanksgiving, a time when families and friends come together, often brings with it a mix of joy, gratitude, and, sometimes, challenging conversations.

Whether you're seated at the adults' table or the kids' table, The Washington Post is here to offer a helping hand in the form of a digestible guide through some of the year's most significant stories.

Politics

Abortion

Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022, the conversation around abortion rights has taken center stage in six states, including traditionally conservative ones like Kansas, Kentucky, and Ohio. The debate has expanded to include discussions on the FDA's regulation of the abortion pill mifepristone, making it a topic ripe for discussion this Thanksgiving.

Presidential Age

With President Biden potentially facing a second term at 82 and former President Trump at 78, age has become a significant factor in public perception. Polls suggest that a substantial portion of the population considers both candidates too old for another term, setting the stage for a nuanced conversation about the future of U.S. leadership.

Trump's Legal Cases

Former President Trump faces multiple criminal charges, marking a historic moment in U.S. politics. From alleged interference in Georgia's election to charges related to classified documents, these cases are sure to spark discussions about the intersection of law and politics around the Thanksgiving table.

Pop Culture

A Summer on Tour

This summer witnessed a resurgence of live performances, from megastars like Beyoncé to icons like Bruce Springsteen. The return of live music after pandemic restrictions provides a lighthearted topic to balance more serious conversations.

50 Years of Hip-Hop

Celebrating half a century of hip-hop invites reflections on its cultural impact and evolution. This milestone provides an opportunity to explore how this genre, once considered underground, has become a dominant force in contemporary music.

Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a Small Town'

Country music star Jason Aldean's controversial music video is bound to raise eyebrows. A discussion on the intersection of art, social issues, and public reception could add a touch of cultural analysis to the Thanksgiving menu.

Economy

Artificial Intelligence

The mainstreaming of artificial intelligence (AI) sparks conversations about its impact on jobs and society. From the rise of generative AI to the controversy surrounding its influence, this topic offers a mix of technological wonder and ethical considerations.

Labor

A surge in strikes across various sectors, from Hollywood to autoworkers, signals a changing landscape in labor relations. As people discuss their work experiences, the conversation may delve into the challenges and triumphs of today's workforce.

Inflation

Despite a robust job market, inflation has become a significant concern. Understanding the disconnect between economic indicators and public perception opens the door to discussions about personal finance and economic policy.

International

Israel-Hamas

The recent conflict between Hamas and Israel, resulting in casualties and geopolitical tensions, provides an opportunity to discuss the complex dynamics of the Middle East.

Russia-Ukraine

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has global implications. Thanksgiving discussions might touch on the geopolitics involved and the international community's response.

Discord Leaks

The Discord intelligence leaks and subsequent arrest of a member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard offer a glimpse into modern espionage. This could be a captivating story to share at the Thanksgiving table.

Sports

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce

The unexpected pairing of pop icon Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce has intrigued many. A lighthearted conversation about the intersection of music and sports could add a touch of pop culture to the festivities.

MLB's New Pitch Clock

The introduction of a pitch clock in Major League Baseball aims to shorten games. This change could prompt discussions about tradition versus innovation in sports.

The Winners

Celebrating the achievements of sports teams like the Las Vegas Aces and the Vegas Golden Knights provides a positive and unifying topic for Thanksgiving discussions.

Leftovers

Gun Violence

Reflecting on the year's tragic mass shootings prompts important conversations about gun violence and potential solutions.

Climate

Acknowledging the challenges posed by a changing climate opens the door to discussions about environmental awareness and action.

Titan Submersible

The captivating story of the Titan submersible's journey and subsequent explosion sheds light on regulatory issues. It's a story that combines elements of adventure and oversight.

Covid-19

Reflecting on the milestones in the fight against COVID-19, from vaccines to the evolving understanding of the virus, can provide a sense of shared resilience.

Turkey Talk

And, of course, no Thanksgiving is complete without some light-hearted discussions about creative ways to enjoy those leftover turkey dishes.

As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, let these conversation starters guide you through a meaningful and engaging holiday celebration. From politics to pop culture, and from international affairs to sports, there's a topic for every taste at the Thanksgiving table. Wishing you a thoughtful and joyful holiday season!

DIG INTO THIS ONE

What if I could give you a pair of magical glasses that changed the way you saw the world? What if whenever you wore these glasses you felt much better? Let's say the glasses are powerful enough to turn a bad day into a good day. They are powerful enough to change despair into hope. And these glasses only cost a few dollars.

Interested? Most people would probably want to buy these glasses. The good news for you is that you can! This book can have the same effect as magical glasses, except that it doesn't work through magic. You will be taught how to be intentional about what you focus on and it will transform the way you feel. The world outside will remain as it is. But what you see there will be radically different. Your life is much better than you think.

HISTORY

Thanksgiving's Culinary Evolution: A Journey Through History, Unity, and Global Flavors on the Dinner Table

Thanksgiving, a cherished holiday steeped in tradition, invokes images of turkey dinners, pumpkin pies, and a feast of familiar fixings.

However, the holiday's culinary landscape is transforming, embracing global flavors that mirror the diverse tapestry of today's America. While the quintessential Thanksgiving menu may differ from the first feast in Colonial America, the essence of the holiday persists as a celebration of unity and gratitude through the power of food.

Anna Zeide, associate professor of history and director of the Food Studies Program at Virginia Tech, delves into the historical roots of Thanksgiving cuisine and sheds light on its evolution.

The First Thanksgiving: Myth versus Reality

Contrary to the elementary school portrayal, the first Thanksgiving was not adorned with a bounty of turkey and apple pie. Complex interactions between British colonists and the Wampanoag Indigenous people characterized the 1621 feast. Primary-source historical records suggest a menu featuring wild turkey, fowl, venison, cod, bass, and corn – foods indigenous to the Americas before the Columbian Exchange.

Modern additions like apple pie were absent, given apples' origins in central Asia, a fact often overlooked in the nostalgic retelling of the holiday's history.

Thanksgiving's Evolution: A Unifying Project

After fading into obscurity for two centuries, Thanksgiving resurfaced in the early 1800s. Against a backdrop of tension over slavery and immigration, leaders sought to elevate Colonial history as a unifying project. Influences such as home economics, advertising, industrial food production, and transformations in cooking methods contributed to Thanksgiving's evolution into a celebration marked by abundance, standardization, and streamlined home cooking.

Sarah Josepha Hale, editor of Godey's Lady's Book, played a pivotal role in pushing for Thanksgiving as a national holiday. Her efforts culminated in Abraham Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation in 1863, emphasizing national unity during the Civil War.

Staples of Thanksgiving Dinner: Tradition and Standardization

Godey's Lady's Book, a prominent women's magazine, showcased recipes and recommendations for Thanksgiving celebrations, even before it became an official holiday. Roast turkey, herbed dressing, creamed onions, and mashed potatoes were among the popular dishes promoted by the magazine.

The standardization of American food tastes in the early 20th century, influenced by the rise of home economics, further solidified the prominence of these dishes. Fannie Farmer's Boston Cooking School and publications like the Boston Cooking-School Magazine featured Thanksgiving recipes that reflected the prevailing culinary preferences of the time.

The Significance of Thanksgiving Food

Thanksgiving, occurring just before winter, symbolizes the acknowledgment of the fleeting harvest and the impending darker days. Even in today's era of abundance, the holiday harks back to a time when winter meant scarce resources and hunger, making a bountiful meal a cause for celebration.

A unique aspect of Thanksgiving is its emphasis on home-cooked meals, providing an opportunity for families to come together. The coordination of oven schedules, thoughtful meal preparation, and the devoted time spent cooking connect us to the rich history of kitchen labor, particularly women's contributions.

The Untold Stories on the Thanksgiving Table

Anna Zeide's exploration of green bean casserole unveils a hidden narrative of post-war America in the 1950s. The dish, made from canned ingredients like Campbell's cream of mushroom soup, green beans, and French fried onions, symbolized the era's ideologies. In the Cold War context, food became a symbol of American superiority, showcasing suburban homes, efficient kitchens, and the abundance of the food supply. Green bean casserole, with its simplicity and use of packaged ingredients, emerged as a potent ideological emblem of that period.

As Thanksgiving is here, the evolving tapestry of its menu reflects not only the changing culinary landscape but also the rich history and diverse influences that have shaped this beloved holiday feast.

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