Celebrating Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving 2024: Gratitude, Gatherings, and Good Food
Mmmm, pumpkin pie! All images free courtesy of pexels.com
As the leaves fall and the crisp air signals the arrival of the holiday season, we prepare for two of the most heartwarming celebrations of this year: Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving 2024. While Thanksgiving is steeped in tradition and family connections, Friendsgiving offers a fresh, modern take on the holiday by celebrating with chosen family—our friends.
Consider and explore the essence of both celebrations. We’re offering tips to make them memorable and meaningful for everyone gathered around the table. Mix and match to suit yourself. Treat friends like family, and treat family like friends.
The Tradition of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time-honored American holiday, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It’s a day to express gratitude, reflect on our blessings, and share a hearty meal with loved ones. Traditional dishes like roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie are staples of Thanksgiving feasts. Families often gather to watch parades, football games, and, of course, enjoy time together.
Beyond the traditions, Thanksgiving invites us to pause and give thanks for the people and experiences that enrich our lives. As always, let’s strive to emphasize the spirit of gratitude by incorporating meaningful activities, such as sharing what we’re thankful for or volunteering to help those in need.
Friendsgiving: A Modern Twist
Friendsgiving is all about bringing friends together for a relaxed, fun-filled celebration. Typically held in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving—or sometimes even as a casual replacement—it allows people to celebrate in their own unique ways.
Why Friendsgiving is Special
Friendsgiving is a time to honor the friendships that sustain us. For those who may not have family nearby or prefer a more laid-back holiday, it offers an inclusive alternative. It’s also an opportunity to experiment with new recipes, share potluck-style meals, and enjoy a casual, laughter-filled gathering.
Key Elements of a Great Friendsgiving
Potluck Perfection
Let each friend bring their favorite dish to share. This not only reduces the host’s workload but also creates a diverse and delicious spread.
Creative Themes
Add a fun twist to your Friendsgiving by choosing a theme, like “International Flavors,” where everyone brings a dish inspired by different cultures, or “Dessert First,” where sweet treats take center stage.
Gratitude Moments
Incorporate a moment of gratitude where everyone shares something they appreciate about their friendships or the past year. It’s a small touch that adds heartfelt meaning to the celebration.
Games and Activities
Keep the energy lively with board games, trivia, or even a group movie marathon featuring holiday classics.
Planning Tips for Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving 2024
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving, thoughtful planning can make your celebration seamless and stress-free. Here are some tips to ensure your gathering is a success:
Plan Ahead
Start planning early by creating guest lists, assigning dishes (for Friendsgiving), and deciding on decorations or activities. This avoids last-minute stress and ensures everyone knows their role.
Embrace DIY Decorations
Simple, budget-friendly decorations can set the festive mood. For Thanksgiving, think fall leaves, pumpkins, and candles. For Friendsgiving, consider personalized place cards or themed centerpieces.
Offer Dietary Options
Ensure your menu accommodates dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, so everyone feels included.
Keep It Light
While traditional dishes are a must for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving is a chance to lighten things up. Encourage guests to bring unconventional dishes or finger foods to keep the vibe casual.
Create a Cozy Atmosphere
Dimmed lighting, soft music, and comfortable seating arrangements can make your guests feel right at home.
Combining Traditions: A Blended Celebration
For those who can’t decide between Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving, why not combine the best of both worlds? Host a Thanksgiving dinner with family during the day and transition to a Friendsgiving-style dessert party with friends in the evening. It’s a great way to spend time with everyone who matters most.
Reflecting on Gratitude
As we gather for Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving, let’s remember the deeper meaning of these celebrations: gratitude. It’s easy to get caught up in the food and festivities, but the heart of these holidays lies in appreciating the people and moments that bring joy to our lives. Whether you’re sharing turkey with family or toasting with friends, make time to reflect on the blessings of the past year.
This holiday season, let’s celebrate both Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving with open hearts, full plates, and cherished memories. Here’s to making this season one of gratitude, togetherness, and joy!
Happy Thanksgiving & Friendsgiving! May your holiday season be filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious food. What are your plans for the celebrations this year? If you have no ready answer, please think about it, and talk about it with friends and family, for their sakes and, most of all, for you.
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This Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving message was both written and optimized by Keith Klein with an AI assist via ChatGPT. Please feel free to use this blog yourself – with attribution via a live link to https://www.bloggey.com/
Celebrating the Contributions of All, with Special Recognition of Women in the Armed Forces
On Veterans Day 2024, we unite as a nation to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of all who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces. This day provides an opportunity to express gratitude to veterans and active duty members for their invaluable contributions to our nation’s safety and liberty. As we honor the achievements and resilience of all service members, we also take time to celebrate the unique contributions of women in the military—an essential and often under-recognized part of the armed forces.
The History of Veterans Day: A Day of Remembrance
Veterans Day has its roots in Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Originally dedicated to honoring World War I veterans, the day evolved in 1954, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially renamed it “Veterans Day” to recognize veterans from all conflicts. Today, Veterans Day is observed every November 11, serving as a reminder of the bravery and commitment of those who defend our freedom.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) notes that Veterans Day differs from Memorial Day in that it honors both living and deceased veterans, celebrating all individuals who have served honorably in the military, whether during times of war or peace (https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/).
Women in the U.S. Armed Forces: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Women have served in the U.S. military since the nation’s founding, though often in unofficial or supporting roles. During the American Revolutionary War, women worked as nurses, spies, and supporters. It was not until World War I that women began enlisting in formal roles within the armed forces. In 1917, the U.S. Navy enlisted women as Yeoman (F) — “yeomanettes” — marking the first time women officially served in a non-nursing military role (https://www.history.navy.mil).
Today, women are an integral part of the U.S. military, with more than 200,000 women serving on active duty, according to recent Department of Defense statistics. They make up roughly 17% of active duty personnel and have served in every combat zone since 9/11. Women now command at every level, breaking barriers across the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force (https://www.defense.gov).
Celebrating Milestones: Women’s Leadership in Combat and Beyond
The role of women in the military has expanded significantly in recent decades. In 2013, the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women in combat roles, allowing them to serve in positions like infantry and special operations that had previously been restricted. Since then, women have proven themselves in these challenging roles, leading to increased opportunities for advancement and leadership within the military structure.
The significance of these changes is evident in the stories of trailblazing women like General Lori Robinson, the first female combatant commander of a major Unified Combatant Command, and General Ann E. Dunwoody, who became the first woman in U.S. military history to achieve a four-star rank. Their achievements underscore the dedication and resilience of women in uniform and inspire future generations of female service members (https://www.army.mil/womenhistory/).
Supporting Veterans and Active Duty Service Members: A National Responsibility
On Veterans Day 2024, the nation recognizes the responsibility to support veterans and active duty personnel as they transition to civilian life. Many face challenges, including securing employment, accessing healthcare, and integrating back into their communities. Organizations like the Veterans Affairs Department, the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars work tirelessly to ensure veterans receive the care and support they deserve.
Veterans’ mental health is also a key area of focus, with studies showing that veterans are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, veterans face unique stressors, and efforts to provide comprehensive mental health support continue to be critical (https://www.nami.org).
Honoring Their Legacy and Embracing the Future
This Veterans Day 2024, we celebrate the accomplishments and sacrifices of all who have served and also the progress made in fostering inclusivity within the armed forces. As more women take on leadership roles and break barriers, they enrich the military’s diversity, bringing new perspectives and strengths to the defense of our country.
Whether by attending parades, sharing stories of service, or reaching out to thank a veteran, Americans can find ways to honor veterans’ legacies and contributions. Veterans Day 2024 reminds us of our enduring debt of gratitude, and our commitment to uphold the principles they fought to protect.
For more information on supporting veterans, consider visiting resources like the Department of Veterans Affairs at https://www.va.gov or the Veterans of Foreign Wars at https://www.vfw.org. These organizations provide essential support to veterans and work to preserve the stories and contributions of those who have served. Another great Veterans organization is the American Legion.
Founded by an Act of Congress after World War I, The American Legion fiercely advocates for the unique needs of every generation of veterans, service members, and their families who pledge to protect our nation. Today, we are committed to destigmatizing mental health support, offering peer-to-peer resources, and empowering everyone to Be The One in the fight to end veteran suicide.
In unity and respect, let us honor all veterans and active duty service members this Veterans Day 2024, recognizing the resilience and courage that define their service.
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This Veterans Day 2024 post was generated by Mark Mullarky and me with an AI assist. Many thanks to Mark, CEO of Great Lakes Tech Services, for going out of his way to honor Vets year-round. Please feel free to copy and share this post with attribution, including a link back to the original site it was posted on, a joint venture of Mark and me, Wisconsin Information Services eXchange.
Labor Day 2024, celebrated on the first Monday of September – September 2nd this year – is more than just the unofficial end of summer. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the contributions of American workers who have built, sustained, and advanced the nation. As we observe Labor Day 2024, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the evolving landscape of the American workforce and consider the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The Origins of Labor Day
The origins of Labor Day can be traced back to the labor movement of the late 19th century. In the midst of the Industrial Revolution, American workers faced grueling conditions—long hours, low wages, and unsafe environments. Labor unions emerged as a powerful force advocating for workers’ rights, leading to significant reforms. The first Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. The idea quickly spread, and by 1894, Labor Day was recognized as a national holiday.
The holiday was established to honor the “strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” and to recognize the contributions workers made to the prosperity and well-being of the country. Today, Labor Day continues to serve as a reminder of the progress made in workers’ rights and the ongoing fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and equitable treatment.
The State of the American Workforce as of Labor Day 2024
As we celebrate Labor Day 2024, the American workforce stands at a crossroads. The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically altered how we work, accelerating trends already underway and introducing new challenges.
Remote Work and the Hybrid Model: One of the most significant changes has been the widespread adoption of remote work. What was once a perk for a select few has now become a standard option for many employees. Companies have had to adapt quickly to the demands of a remote workforce, investing in digital infrastructure and rethinking management strategies. The hybrid model, which combines in-office and remote work, has emerged as a popular solution, offering flexibility while maintaining some degree of face-to-face collaboration.
Automation and AI: The rise of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the job market. While these technologies offer the potential for increased productivity and innovation, they also pose a threat to certain types of jobs. However, automation also creates opportunities in fields like data analysis, AI development, and digital marketing. The challenge lies in ensuring that workers are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly automated economy.
The Gig Economy: The gig economy, characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work, has grown significantly in recent years. While it offers flexibility for workers, it also raises concerns about job security, benefits, and workers’ rights. As more people participate in the gig economy, there is an increasing need for policies that protect these workers while preserving the flexibility that draws people to this type of work.
Labor Unions and Workers’ Rights: Labor unions remain a vital force in advocating for workers’ rights, particularly in sectors like education, healthcare, and manufacturing. In 2024, we are seeing renewed interest in unionization efforts, particularly among younger workers in tech and service industries. This resurgence is driven by concerns over wage stagnation, job security, and workplace conditions. The future of labor unions will likely involve adapting to new industries and forms of work, while continuing to fight for fair treatment and equitable pay.
Looking Beyond Labor Day 2024
As we look ahead, the future of the American workforce will be shaped by how we address these challenges and embrace new opportunities. Investment in education and training programs will be critical to ensuring that workers have the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing job market. Policies that support work-life balance, fair wages, and job security will be essential to maintaining a strong, vibrant workforce.
Labor Day 2024 is not just a day off; it’s a day to recognize the hard work and dedication of American workers. It’s also a time to reflect on the ongoing evolution of work in the United States and to recommit to creating a future where all workers have the opportunity to succeed. As we enjoy our barbecues and parades, let’s remember the labor that built this nation and the work that still needs to be done to ensure a fair and prosperous future for all.
As we gather to celebrate Independence Day 2024, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the extraordinary principles that form the bedrock of our democracy. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States are not merely historical documents; they are the living framework of a great experiment in governance, where the rule of law prevails, and no one is above it.
The Declaration of Independence: A Bold Statement of Freedom
On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, a bold assertion of the American colonies’ intent to break free from British rule. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration articulated the colonies’ grievances against King George III and proclaimed the inherent rights of individuals. The famous preamble, which states that “all men are created equal” and endowed with “unalienable Rights” including “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness,” has resonated through the ages as a powerful declaration of human rights.
The Declaration of Independence was revolutionary in asserting that government derives its power from the consent of the governed, a stark departure from the prevailing notion of the divine right of kings. This foundational idea laid the groundwork for the development of democratic governance, emphasizing that legitimacy stems from the people’s will.
The Constitution: A Framework for Democracy
While the Declaration of Independence set forth the ideals of liberty and equality, the Constitution of the United States, adopted in 1787, provided the structural framework to realize those ideals. The Constitution established a federal system of government characterized by a separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, with a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power.
The Preamble to the Constitution outlines its purposes: “to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.” These goals reflect the Founders’ vision of a government that serves its people and protects their rights.
One of the most significant aspects of the Constitution is the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments that guarantee fundamental liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press; the right to peaceful assembly; and protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. These amendments enshrine the principle that certain rights are inviolable, even by the government.
The Rule of Law: No One Above the Law
A cornerstone of American democracy is the rule of law, which asserts that laws apply equally to all individuals, regardless of their position or status. This principle was a radical departure from the systems of governance that dominated the world in the 18th century, where monarchs and nobility often operated above the law.
The Constitution’s establishment of an independent judiciary is crucial to upholding the rule of law. The judicial branch has the authority to interpret the Constitution and to ensure that laws and executive actions comply with constitutional principles. Landmark Supreme Court cases, such as Marbury v. Madison, which established judicial review, have reinforced the judiciary’s role in maintaining the balance of power and protecting individual rights.
A Living Experiment
American democracy is often called a “great experiment,” a testament to its evolving nature. Over the centuries, the Constitution has been amended to address changing societal needs and to expand the rights and protections it offers. The abolition of slavery through the 13th Amendment, the extension of voting rights to women with the 19th Amendment, and the civil rights advancements of the 1960s all demonstrate the Constitution’s adaptability and enduring relevance.
Independence Day 2024
As we celebrate Independence Day 2024, we honor the visionary documents that laid the foundation for our democracy: the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. These documents embody the revolutionary idea that government should be by the people and for the people, underpinned by the rule of law and the protection of individual rights. They remind us that democracy is not static but a living experiment that requires our active participation and vigilance to uphold its principles. This Independence Day, let us recommit to the ideals of liberty, equality, and justice for all, ensuring that the great experiment of American democracy continues to thrive.
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Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day to honor and mourn those who died while serving in the U.S. military. Many volunteers place an American flag on graves of military personnel in national cemeteries. Memorial Day is also considered the unofficial beginning of summer in the United States.[4]
Many cities and people have claimed to have first celebrated the event. In 1868, General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic called for a “Decoration Day”, which was widely celebrated. By 1890, every Northern state had adopted it as a holiday. The World Wars turned it into a generalized day of remembrance instead of just for the Civil War. In 1971, Congress standardized the holiday as “Memorial Day” and changed its observance to the last Monday in May.
Two other days celebrate those who have served or are serving in the U.S. military: Armed Forces Day (which is earlier in May), an unofficial U.S. holiday for honoring those currently serving in the armed forces, and Veterans Day (on November 11), which honors those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.[5]
We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions. Please contact us with questions. Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response. We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter
Great Lakes Tech Services, LLC, founded in April 2011, focuses on managed IT services for small to mid-size companies in Jefferson, Waukesha, and Milwaukee counties. They bring big-company technology to smaller companies. Mark Mullarky is Microsoft MCSA certified, and continually trains on new technologies.
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You’d never know it when you meet this fellow at work – as studious and business-like as you’ll find him – Mark is an avid ‘Car Guy.’ He built his own hot rod and I’ve seen video of him racing it a Greats Lakes Dragway.
Ars Technica is latin-derived for “art of technology” – they specialize in providing original reviews and news, analysis of technology trends, and advice on a range of technological aspects. It has been a web community for over eight years and features participation and discussions on every article and in its own OpenForum. Their about section states that both knowledge and art are nothing without eachother… “sine scientia ars nihil est” – without knowledge, art is nothing. “sine ars, scientia nihil est” – without art, knowledge is nothing.
Mashable is an American news website and news blog founded in 2005. The website receives an astonishing 30+ million monthly pageviews and has an alexa ranking under 250. Mashable is one of the world’s largest websites and has a large following on many social networks as well. They feature a variety of technological articles, gadgets, video, articles on web design and development, and even posts about startup companies worth keeping an eye on. Their website is well put together and updated constantly with breaking news and an analysis of current popularity trends within its articles.
TED was founded in 1984 as an annual conference held in Monterey, California. TED‘s early emphasis was largely based on technology and design. They address a wide range of topics relating to science and culture. Each speaker is given 18 minutes to present their ideas in the most innovative and engaging way they can. Some of the speakers featured have included Bill Clinton, Al Gore, Bill Gates, and Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, as well as many Nobel Prize winners. In 2006, TED began offering free viewings of the talks.
