Thanksgiving Essentials:
As the community gathers around the table this Thanksgiving, we want to be reminded of the warmth and gratitude we had so far this year. This month we celebrate Thanksgiving traditions, share stories of thankfulness and offer a welcoming spirit to anyone who might not have a place to go for the holiday.
Home for the holidays
Thanksgiving break is a time of joy and relief for students, whether it’s reuniting with loved ones, cuddling up with a favorite pet or just getting a few uninterrupted hours of sleep. Going home feels like hitting a much-needed reset button.
Staff and Students opinions of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is all about tradition, but it’s also a great time to try new dishes or let go of ones that don’t catch your attention no more. Some dishes people must try will be the following:
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
- Trade in the traditional pumpkin pie for these creamy, spiced cheesecake bars. They’re easy to share and an instant hit for dessert lovers.
- Herb Butter Turkey
- Upgrade your turkey by slathering it in a mix of fresh herbs and butter before roasting. This add will keep the meat juicy while infusing every bite with savory flavors.
- Gourmet Mac and Cheese
- Change your average mac and cheese. With a thick rich, creamy cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan baked to golden perfection. Everyone will want in seconds!
Lakeland Community excitement
At Lakeland University, community members share their own perspectives on what they look forward to during Thanksgiving:
Dr. Aimee Jeanne Burns
“We always start planning for Christmas during Thanksgiving. The kids love flipping through the magazines to pick out their gifts. Thanksgiving is all about food and family, but we can’t help getting excited for the holiday season ahead!”
Marlen Reyes, Senior
“Friendsgiving with my friends is something I look forward to every year. Since we’ve all been busy with school, it’s the perfect chance to catch up and enjoy some quality time together.”
Sarah Stege, Junior
“When I was little, my family would head to my aunt’s house for Thanksgiving. I’d spend most of the time with my cousin, who’s a year younger than me, and we’d make a ton of crafts—origami turkeys, painted rock lady bugs, stuff like that. Then, we’d collect all the family members’ names on pieces of paper and ‘raffle’ the crafts off. I’m not sure if anyone kept their paper turkeys, but my cousin and I had so much fun planning our craft raffle every year.”
Thanksgiving Gatherings in Sheboygan (places where homeless people can go)
For anyone without a place to celebrate, several local organizations are hosting Thanksgiving dinners open to the community:
- Salvation Army Sheboygan offers a Thanksgiving meal with welcoming arms. Contact them at (920) 458-3723 for more details.
- Sheboygan County Food Bank sometimes collaborates on holiday events for those in need; reach out to see if they have gatherings or food distributions this Thanksgiving.
- Local Churches such as First Congregational Church and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church often host community Thanksgiving meals. Checking with these or nearby churches can provide an option for fellowship this season.
Whether you’re with family, friends, or celebrating with Lakeland Family we wish you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving!
