Thanksgiving

Yesterday’s Thanksgiving was the first time I’ve contributed to a Holiday meal. I planned to make sweet potatoes with my own special twist. Initially, I was very excited about taking on this task. It wasn’t until I found out that my grandmother planned to make the same dish as me, in case my performance was not up to par, that I lost my motivation. I was very annoyed once I became aware of my grandmother’s plans. I’m not sure if it was the complete lack of faith my family had in my cooking abilities or the fact that I didn’t need to cook because someone else was preparing the same dish as me.

Cooking and contributing to the Thanksgiving meal was not my idea. I was quite content with following my annual routine and showing up to dinner bringing my big appetite and positive energy. The women of my family, however, insisted that I not only contribute a dish but that I prepare the dish myself.

I know how to cook and I usually cook very well. My performance was impaired on Thanksgiving and I am convinced that it was due to the fact that I knew my dish would be in competition with my grandmother’s. That pressure overwhelmed me. My sweet potatoes came out horrible to say the least. I got stirring happy and ruined the consistency of the potatoes. Instead of them having a thick and chunky texture, my sweet potatoes turned out thin and mushy. I was so disappointed. My family seemed to get a big kick out of my failure. Everyone laughed at my expense.

I’m going to cook again for Christmas’ dinner. I’ve learned my lesson for the next Holiday and know not to share my plans with anyone. My Christmas dish will be a surprise.