by Dee Cain

Created on: November 15, 2010

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to celebrate a non-traditional Thanksgiving? No running from your parent's home for one huge meal, simply to be faced with the prospect of encountering a second big meal at the in-laws in just a few hours. There is an alternative by having a non-traditional Thanksgiving.

As families are spread out all over the country or even within a few hours drive, it has gotten too expensive for some people to make the trip home for the holidays. Instead of spending the day with a traditional Thanksgiving at your own home consider doing something a bit different and out of the ordinary.

Consider the multitude of organizations that fix and serve Thanksgiving dinner for the homeless. Go as a family unit and volunteer your time. This would be a great learning experience for those younger members of the family. They can see how fortunate they are to have the home and food on their table, while encountering others their own age.

Perhaps a vacation is in order this year. The family may want to head to a ski lodge or to the coast for some much needed time together. This would be a great time for the immediate family to reconnect. Catching up before the whirlwind Christmas season begins.

No money or time for that vacation getaway? Pack a picnic lunch and visit a local state park for the day. If you must have turkey, make turkey sandwiches. Spend the day just having fun and being thankful for your family.

If the weather doesn't allow outside activities, plan a pizza and movie night. Start the holiday season relaxing together at home. This is something many families don't get to enjoy with the rush of hectic daily schedules. You could also turn off the television and make crafts or presents for Christmas. Even those who believe they aren't crafty can use a glue gun and string popcorn for the tree.

Grandparents and parents can give their older children the gift of time at Thanksgiving by eating out with friends. If you are going to have a family get together at Christmas, by all means give your children a guilt free Thanksgiving holiday so they can spend time with their own families. Even rescheduling a Thanksgiving dinner for earlier or later in the month can take some of the stress away from holidays for your children. Being thankful for the people in our lives and the things we have been given, doesn't have to be only observed on the last Thursday in November. Thanksgiving can be any day you choose.

As much as we love traditions we have grown accustom to in the past, many have encountered changes beyond their control. Instead of grieving for the death of the traditional Thanksgiving, it may be time to liven up the holiday by using your imagination. You never know when a non-traditonal Thanksgiving may turn into a tradition for your family.

Learn more about this author, Dee Cain.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.