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If you've been following me for any length of time, you have to know that Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. As Halloween comes to an end my excitement grows because I know that the candy the kids received while trick or treating will make the perfect road trip treat.
Thanksgiving is a huge deal for my family. Growing up we would rotate which houses hosted every year and travel from state to state. My family spans from Pennsylvania to as far south as Florida so we are no stranger to road trips. But, as the years went by, my grandmother's health prevented her from traveling so we took the celebration to her in a small town called Tabor City. It's the kind of town where everyone speaks and most are like family. Once you reach the city limits, you must roll down your windows and give the obligatory wave or hug.
Tabor City, North Carolina, located in Columbus County and is the Yam Capital of the world. It is the passerby when heading to the Grand Strand of Myrtle Beach. Home to those funny looking but delicious red hot dogs at Fowler's Grill and this pork sausage that we can never get enough of. I can't forget my first favorite Super Market- Piggly Wiggly which is no longer located in the city limits. This is where I learned about racism and why you couldn't cross the tracks, how to drive a car without a license (shh don't tell), the fun of fireworks, jumping ditches and gained a true sense of community. I spent almost every summer here and would cry when my parents said it was time to go home.
Don't laugh but I still have those feelings as an adult. It's almost like this is my safe space because no matter what happens in the world, I know that the people here love me. We don't always get along and yes we fight but love is never lost and I think my grandmother is smiling from heaven upon us.
While we love Tabor City, my grandmother's modest house can not house the large number of us who make this annual trip so we rent houses and /or condos on Myrtle Beach. The weather varies every year but it never stops us from enjoying the beach as if it were spring. The kids don't think twice about rolling up their pants and chasing the waves. It is such a beautiful sight to see. This year, I decided that we needed to enjoy the beach more and capture some memories.
Life is short so it's important not to let “things” hinder you from following your heart. Here are ten reasons why you should make Thanksgiving your favorite holiday.
Budget Friendly Vacation: The prices at many of the resorts are cheaper because it's not considered peak travel time. I will say that it seems that more families are starting to take advantage of this special travel time. Nothing like creating family memories on a budget. I received comments from a few “friends” that they hate Myrtle Beach and it was easy to determine the reason why. It is very easy to end up on the wrong side or in a place that does not meet your usual requirements. I love giving recommendations and I think you should always seek them from people you trust. When you're ready to plan, just drop me a line.
The Menu: My mother puts together an extensive menu of no less than thirty items. It's not about being pinterest ready but tummy ready. Each family member picks an item and/or adds what they plan to bring. Cranberry Sauce, Mac and Cheese and Sweet Potato Pie are always on the list.
The Smells: There is no better smell than a house that is preparing for a Thanksgiving feast. The smell of Mac and Cheese always makes me smile. If only I could bottle it up and make candles.
Butler Brewery: My family does not own a brewery but moonshine is always available and it beats anything you can get in a liquor store. And since it's a celebration, so it's never too early or too late to drink.
Kid Activities: The kids don't always get to see each other because school activities, sports and other obligations often limit what free time they have. We plan activities that promote bonding and often the adults join in. There is always a movie outing and some other fun activities. It's great to see them create their own fun without us.
Black Friday: Do you shop on black Friday? When toys were on the list, it was a big deal because the sales are usually great but now, I just go out to people watch. It's fun planning our attack plan over Thanksgiving dinner. This has become a true family tradition.
Stretch Pants Only: There is no dress code but a pair of spanx leggings can not only help with the holiday belly, they make you look great. I'm partial to the camo ones but my cousin decided to start a new tradition. He wore his red velvet jacket to enjoy his red velvet cake.
Santa Claus: Even though he tends to put an end to Thanksgiving quickly, you can't help but enjoy what his presence does to children of all ages. The older ones try to pretend they don't believe while the younger ones are preparing their list.
Gratefulness: Only a scrooge, would not be affected by the spirit of gratefulness that this holiday brings. It's perfect to reflect on just how God has blessed you. We always say one thing we are grateful for prior to dinner.
No Diets: This word is banned during our feast. The only restrictions are medical but you are expected to eat as much as you want while trying some new things. I'm not good with trying new things as I am a visual eater. If it doesn't look appealing then I am not interested and this is why I am not a big seafood eater.
Packing up time always seems to come quicker than we want but the hugs are plentiful. Until next year, when we will do it all again.
Can't wait to see what fun activities we can find while visiting Myrtle Beach! Have you added Myrtle Beach to your travel plan?
