A Gathering Like No Other
Our Thanksgiving guest list has always been eclectic—like the start of a joke: A college roommate from Berkeley, a big bank executive, and a little old Austrian lady raised by nuns walk into a dining room…
This is no picture-perfect Norman Rockwell gathering. Instead, it’s a diverse mix of people and dishes, where German nut cake, Kentucky cornbread, and Iraqi hummus share space on the table. Conversations range from swapping recipes to deep discussions on world affairs. But one thing remains constant: the unspoken rule of Thanksgiving—eat until you can’t move.
A Shocking New Tradition
Then came the disruptors—New Yorkers.
When my husband’s twin brother Chris and his wife Suzanne moved to Woodstock, they introduced a radical new tradition: the Thanksgiving Day post-feast walk. Their rule? Eat as much as you like, but beware—shortly after dinner, you’ll be expected to embark on a multi-mile trek.
And for those who refuse? The ultimate punishment: no dessert. A true Thanksgiving sacrilege!
Meet the Fitness Fanatic
To understand this madness, you must know Suzanne. She is the definition of discipline—mentally tough, physically fit, and an overachiever in every sense. With multiple marathons, a strict healthy diet, teaching awards, and a Ph.D. in progress, she’s a force to be reckoned with.
When someone like Suzanne suggests a new holiday tradition, you approach with caution. Half of our Thanksgiving crowd flat-out refused. But after a brief food coma, the rest of us reluctantly agreed to give it a try.
A Walk to Remember
One key to making this Thanksgiving walk a success? Keeping it simple. No elaborate planning, just an easygoing stroll close to home. Luckily, our house borders the Corps of Engineers property surrounding Lake Allatoona, offering unmarked trails that weave through the hills. My son, Tyler, became our guide as we navigated the wooded paths.
A Surprising Revelation
By the time we returned, something unexpected had happened—we actually felt good. The fresh air, movement, and laughter turned out to be the perfect antidote to the usual post-feast sluggishness.
And best of all? We had plenty of room for dessert.
