Enjoy Turkey Day

This is one of favorite holidays. It started last Saturday. After a number of us fraternity brothers graduated from Ball State in the early 90s, a number of us started a little tradition. With help of an old platonic female roommate, a Theta, we began celebrating Thanksgiving a week early. Usually the weekend before and it was a party. We served ham, turkey and other side dishes, but it was really a reason to drink and bond. Over the years, we have gone from houses to back of my in-laws bar and back to houses. And now we are outnumbered by our litters. No more heavy alcohol consumption, just seeing old friends.

Now comes the magical day that is Thanksgiving. It starts with an early wakeup and throwing on the old Chris Zorich Chicago Bears jersey for the game. Some friends of mine have been playing football every year on this blessed day of consumption fro 25 years. After a few beers, usually Old Style and a couple belts of whiskey, we start playing tackle football around 9 a.m.. The average age is 35+. You think we would know better about the tackling. The ball marker starts as a couple cans and evolves into the cooler. After 15 years playing with this yahoos, I have twisted ankles, sprained knees and dislocated a shoulder.

Then the obscene eating part. As a child we would venture to Batavia where my father was from, then to Chicago for my mom; now I stay in Indy with my wife and kids. I slither from the game as my wife gives me the look of "idiot" as I try to hide any limping on my way to shower. I deserve it.

She makes a very good sweet potato dish and I gorge myself on turkey and stuffing. I have been training this year in the spirit of Landfill from Beerfest. With the in-laws come over and massive amounts of turkey and a little wine, we devour. We hang out, watch football and relax. This year my folks will be stopping by since one has a broken foot and other a brand spanking new knee.

This is my fun filled day: so eat up, enjoy your family and friends.