The third Thursday of  November, the 26th this year, is Thanksgiving Day in the United States. It’s the most important family holiday of the year for Americans, full of traditions and warm memories. My good friend Marti Smye celebrates those sentiments in a touching remembrance of her family’s rituals, published this week in the Huffington Post.

Here’s how her musings begin. Click on the link below to read the entire article which may well bring back memories of your own family.

Growing up in the not-so-booming metropolis of Salineville, Ohio during the 1950s-60s, families struggled with the same challenges of spending time together that they face today. My father was a dairy farmer and worked very long hours. My mother worked full-time to help make ends meet. My brother was the captain of the football team, and I was the editor of the school newspaper. While we all had demands … click right here to read the entire article.

Her post is part of a series produced by The Huffington Post and the 92nd Street Y, founders of #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that will take place this year on December 1. These stories highlight the work of organizations and people around the world who are committed to giving back and doing good this #GivingTuesday.

Let’s all make a plan to give back and do good on December 1 … and every day! Follow Marti’s lead and write a story about your family’s traditions.

In Canada, we celebrate our Thanksgiving Day on the second Monday of October. I’m often in the States in November and feel fortunate to have a second opportunity to celebrate this special day.

~ Warmest wishes to all ~