Why Do We Do These 10 Weird Things Every Thanksgiving?

"LET'S TALK TURKEY"

Tis that time of the year, where the holidays are upon us.  Let's dive in as to what are some of the weirdest things we, as Americans, tend to do every Thanksgiving.  Several involve the turkey itself.

1. STUFFING THE TURKEY-this can be traced back to the Romans, but as to the Pilgrims actually stuffing their turkeys is unknown.  And, how it was put in as a turkey day tradition is also unknown.
2. TURKEY BOWLING-this started by an accident in a grocery, and it became a turkey day tradition, since 1988.   It consists of an aisle as the lane, the frozen turkeys are the balls, and  pop bottles served as the pins. 
3. WISHBONE-the breaking of the wishbone, for luck actually comes from an ancient civilization.  And, it just got passed on, and eventually made its way to America. 
4. THE PRESIDENTIAL TURKEY PARDON-this event is sponsored by the National Turkey Federation, who has provided turkeys since 1947.  JFK spared his turkey, and that is when the pardoning of the turkey caught on and now presidents since have "pardoned" their turkey.

"Why did the turkey cross the road? To get to the dinner table."

 Speaking about the dinner table, three other weird traditions developed around eating.   And, if you can't cook,  or happen to screw up a side dish, don't worry there is a weird tradition that has you covered. 

1. WEIRD SIDE DISHES-at the family dinners, no one wanted to show up empty handed.  Hence,  off the wall chaotic side dishes were born.  Who knows if the person couldn't really cook, or it was a side dish gone wrong, but now people come up with crazy side dishes to bring to the family dinner.   So, if your side dish doesn't turn out, or you really don't know how to cook, this has you covered.  Just give your dish a name and you will be good to go.
2. TURKEY TROT-this began as a way for people to shed off some of the food.  The first trot took place in 1896, and now it has spread throughout the US.  Some Turkey Trots involve costumes and are hosted by charities.
3. THANKSGIVING-CENTRIC EATING COMPETITIONS-all across the country,  there are a variety of eating competitions.  They range from pumpkin pie eating challenges, to eating the entire turkey.  Yes, that means the whole turkey.

"Turkey: the only bird that can make you feel stuffed and thankful at the same time."

The final three  of the 10 weirdest things we do on Thanksgiving are built in America's DNA.

1. MACY'S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE-This Parade took place in 1924, but has been on tv since 1953.  It is one of the biggest parades in the world, with intention of getting people psyched up about Christmas gifts.  It is known as "The World's Largest Store."
2. BLACK FRIDAY-shop till you drop.  This is where companies are moving from the red into the black(turning profits), by giving deals.  And lastly,
3. WATCHING FOOTBALL-what is better than getting stuffed with food, some friendly competition with family,  and yelling at the tv to round the day out?

Is there a "weird" tradition that you celebrate, that wasn't listed here? 

"COZY UP WITH SOME HEARTWARMING TALES THIS NOVEMBER"

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's no better time to curl up with a good story, or cozy up with a movie.  This month's picks are all about atmosphere-books that draw you in like a soft blanket and movies that capture the magic and mystery of fall.  Grab a mug of something warm and let's dive in.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

THE ACCIDENTAL TOURIST BY ANNE TYLER-This is a kooky love story that will make you smile through the tears.  And, it also has a slow-roasted turkey to complete the holiday feeling of Thanksgiving.

THE HARROWING BY ALEXANDRA SOKOLOFF-What else does a group of College kids have to do over the the Thanksgiving break, but take out the Quija Board and talk to spirits.  If you like Supernatural thrillers, this book is for you.

AN OLD-FASHIONED THANKSGIVING BY LOUISA MAY ALCOTT-This is a heartwarming tale about an impoverished family that is determined to get Thanksgiving Dinner on the Table.  It is a short story and centers around being thankful for what you have.

Stories don’t just live on the page — they unfold on screen, too. After diving into this month’s reads, here are a few films that echo the season’s themes of family, gratitude, and connection.

MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:

PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES-A light-hearted comedy about two travelers trying to make it home for the Thanksgiving holiday.

KNIVES OUT-For those who like a little mystery and mischief with their pumpkin pie, this one is for you.  It is a brilliant whodunit.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS-This is a dramedy mixed with chaos and love that all family gatherings come with.  It has an all star cast and everybody can relate to this one.

A CHARLIE BROWN THANKSGIVING-This classic never fails on bringing smiles and warmth on making Thanksgiving special.

  ““Each birthday is a reminder of the joy you bring to our community.”.”

             RICHARD TYE

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

             CRYSTAL REYES

Welcome New Residents

JOSEPHINE SERRANO

"REMEMBERING THOSE WHO SERVED "

This Veteran's Day,  we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation with courage, dedication, and sacrifice.  Their selfless service has protected the freedoms we cherish and reminds us of the strength and spirit that define our country.

Here at The Retreat at Church Ranch, we are especially proud to recognize our own residents/staff who answered the call to serve.  Today we honor:

RESIDENTS:

• STAN SIMMS- U.S. ARMY
• PHIL MONTOYA- U.S. ARMY
• HANK WORKMAN- U.S. NAVY
• ELWOOD ENGLISH- U.S. NAVY
• DON HOLLANDSWORTH- U.S. ARMY
• JACK MARTINDALE- U.S. AIRFORCE
• BEA JOHNSON- U.S. AIRFORCE
• JAMES HABERER- U.S. ARMY

             STAFF:

• JODI MCKINEY- U.S. ARMY 

Each of you has made a lasting impact through your service, and your courage continues to inspire us all.  We are deeply grateful for your sacrifices and for the example you set every day within our community. 

   "TOGETHER WE STAND, GRATEFUL FOR THEIR SERVICE."

PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR HOLIDAY CELEBRATION ON DECEMBER 6TH, 2025 FROM 2:00 PM TO 4:00 PM.   DINNER AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT WILL BE PROVIDED.  PLEASE MAKE SURE TO RSVP-MCKINEYJODIRCR@GMAIL.COM BY NOV. 21ST, 2025