Published: Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2011 / Updated: Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2011 07:07 PM
Let the holiday season begin by giving thanks
The National Turkey Federation estimates that 46 million turkeys were eaten this Thanksgiving, and that 10.8 billion cranberries are consumed every holiday season from September to December.
That’s nearly two berries for each person on this planet.
The side dishes that we couldn’t do without this year, according to a survey, are stuffing, 58 percent; sweet potatoes, 18 percent; cranberry sauce, 16 percent; and pumpkin pie, 8 percent.
Californians are the largest consumers of turkey in the United States.
Celebrating doesn’t stop on Thanksgiving — it’s the start of the holiday season. Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping days of the year, starting at 3 a.m., or even earlier this year.
Being out in the crowds trying to shop is not my favorite thing to do.
But I love the start of the holiday season — it reminds me to be grateful for all the things I have.
At this time of the year, it would be a good thing to discuss with family and friends how each one of us could help someone or some organization in lieu of gifts you won’t wear or ever use.
In the last few days, I had the opportunity to stop, look up and be grateful for the many gifts that are mine, and I am definitely going to share this year.
“If you have much, give of your wealth. If you have little, give of your heart.”
The list below includes just a few of the local organizations that need help:
Paws in the Panhandle is holding a yard sale to benefit the animals, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 3, rain or shine, at 10681 Barbourville Road, Indian Land.
Healing Horses, a great rescue group for horses. Find details at www.healinghorses.us.
Belair Food Pantry, at Belair Methodist Church, Shelly Mullis Road, Indian Land
Fort Mill Care Center, Fort Mill