Celebrating Thanksgiving: A Personal Experience with Self-Catering and Catering
Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday for many families, often marked by traditional gatherings and home-cooked feasts. However, for some, the decision to cook or cater for this special day can vary widely. In this article, we explore the experiences and perspectives of individuals who are either cooking their own Thanksgiving meal or having it catered.
Personal Experiences and Perspectives
My Wife and I are Making it
For me and my wife, this Thanksgiving will be a unique and intimate experience. Typically, we feast with a crowd of 8 to 12 guests, sometimes even up to 15 when we had three extra people over 35 years ago. This year, our guest list is considerably smaller—only my wife's mother will join us. It will be the smallest gathering we've had for 40 years, which feels like a significant shift from the usual holiday tradition.
As a cook, I find it exhilarating to prepare a meal from scratch, but this year, it's just for two people. It's a chance to experiment with new recipes and flavors, albeit on a smaller scale. The absence of a bustling kitchen and an array of company can sometimes make the process less exciting, but I'm still looking forward to the experience.
Unique Situations and Challenges
I'm British, Why Celebrate Thanksgiving?
As a Brit, the thought of celebrating a holiday named after a cultural narrative that doesn't resonate with my heritage can be jarring. It’s common to receive a barrage of questions about why the British don't celebrate Thanksgiving, as it's often seen as an American holiday. However, the dynamics of the holiday in the UK have their own rich tapestry, including Christmas dinner, Easter Sunday roast, and other large family gatherings. Personally, I always cook my own meals for these occasions and find it satisfying to host a meal, serving it to my loved ones.
When it comes to a hypothetical Thanksgiving celebration, the idea of paying someone to cook for me feels odd, especially when the cook would rather spend the holiday with their own family. Cooking for myself adds a personal touch and ensures that the meal is tailored to my taste and preferences.
Butler's Perspective
Butler
Some people are accustomed to having their Thanksgiving cooked for them, believing that the experience is more authentic or convenient. For instance, someone once had a catered Thanksgiving, but found that the custom was not as enriching as they anticipated. Catered meals can be a delightful way to enjoy a feast without the physical labor, but their authenticity and the personal connection of a homemade meal are often priceless.
On the opposite side, some are setting up a Thanksgiving feast on their own. Despite some reluctance from guests who prefer to stay at home or avoid gatherings due to the ongoing pandemic, the idea of cooking for yourself can be a rewarding and comforting experience. It offers the opportunity to create a memorable meal and enjoy a sense of togetherness even in a smaller setting.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to cook your Thanksgiving dinner or have it catered, the decision depends on personal preferences and circumstances. For some, self-catering provides a unique and hands-on experience that can be satisfying and meaningful. Others may find joy in the convenience and luxury of a catered meal, especially during challenging times. The key is to make the holiday special and memorable, no matter how you decide to celebrate.
Thanksgiving is a time to gather, give thanks, and share in the warmth and comfort of a delicious meal, whether it's prepared by you or someone else.