Sadly, most retailers and even the general public switch into Christmas mode as soon as it hits November 1st. Millions of Americans celebrate the November holiday, but it certainly does not get as much hype as its October and December neighbors. It really is a shame.

For those who do celebrate, Thanksgiving is unique to each and every family. There are, of course, similar traditions from family to family, but everyone does something to make it their own. So, you may not agree with or relate to all of my points, but here's why I love Turkey Day:

1. The Food

Let's get the obvious out of the way first. Thanksgiving dinner is food paradise. Whether you eat the traditional Thanksgiving classics like turkey and cranberry sauce, or your family puts their own spin on things, the Thanksgiving feast is something to look forward to all year long. Even a picky eater such as myself can find excitement on the dinner table. There's such a wide variety of tasty eats that it's practically statistically impossible not to find something you love. Don't even get me started on the pies...

2. The Family

Families come in all shapes and sizes, just like Thanksgiving dinner. Some families may travel from different corners of the country to be together for the special meal. Others may simply spend the evening with the members of their household. There's no wrong way to do Thanksgiving. Personally, Thanksgiving allows me to see members of the family that I haven't seen in quite some time. There's an ongoing joke about political arguments, drunk uncles, and other family gossip that occurs during the holiday. This is somewhat realistic when it comes to my family, but overall we love each other and it's always a treat to see old familiar faces.

3. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

I must admit, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is not quite as exciting for me now as it was when I was a child. I used to love getting up on Thanksgiving morning and turning on channel five to watch all of the pretty floats, dancers, musicians, and singers. I'd always get excited to see Santa Claus at the end of the parade and the other floats and balloons that return year after year. I have never been to New York to see the parade in person, but the fact that it's televised lets all of America join in on the Thanksgiving tradition, and I think that's a beautiful thing.

4. Black Friday and Cyber Monday

America is the land of consumption. We love to buy things, but we also love our money and can't resist a good deal. That's why Black Friday and Cyber Monday are so ingenious. I know they aren't on Thanksgiving, but the two "holidays" are definitely an extension of it. A lot can be said about the irony of going out and buying things the day (or Monday) after a holiday when you're supposed to celebrate being thankful, but I won't get into all of that. Black Friday can get really crazy and sometimes dangerous thanks to large crowds and limited goods, so that's why I prefer Cyber Monday. Rather than standing in lines for hours upon end, I can get deals with a few clicks of the mouse. I love technology.

5. Time Off Of School And Work

Thanksgiving is a national holiday, so even if you don't celebrate it, you have the pleasure of some time off of school and work. Relaxation and free time are often in short supply, so holidays are very important. Perhaps what I am most thankful for is the few days around Thanksgiving I have free to let out my inner lazy pig. Gotta love the holidays.