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People Are Sharing The Things That Ruined Their Thanksgiving, And These 44 Are Wild
Thanksgiving is one of, if not the, biggest American holidays. Last year, the Pew Research Center found that 91% of Americans celebrate Thanksgiving. And while the day (or the entire weekend) is supposed to be about feeling thankful for the people we care about most, the meaning of the holiday might get lost in all the stress and anxiety.
In 2023, the American Psychological Association reported that 41% of Americans feel their stress levels increase during the holiday season from November to January. Many things can stop us from enjoying Thanksgiving, from unexpected hospital visits, conflicts with family members, or having to spend the weekend alone.
Here are the stories from people who shared their Thanksgiving woes after one netizen asked, "What ruined your Thanksgiving this year?" Perhaps some of the answers will help you put your own plans in perspective or feel relatable if you find yourself in a similar situation this year.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
First child is in the NICU. We heard the cafe would be serving turkey but it was closed so we had a bagel instead.
Honestly though it didn’t ruin it at all. He’s likely coming home tomorrow, and bagels aren’t bad. We got to hold him and this might actually be my favorite thanksgiving.
Babynursemissy 2 months ago
I’ve spent many holidays working in the NICU. Holding their babies for the first time is always better to parents than any holiday dinner/get-together.
RELATED:
#2
A bunch of people who wouldn't get out of my kitchen. Because I'm a guy all the old women think I can't do anything. Well, meemaw, we still got three pounds of your dry potatoes but nothing I made has leftovers.
UnclePanda 2 months ago
I've always enjoyed quietly watching the tense potluck culture concerning 'who's food gets eaten first/most,' but I don't play because I cheat. I take homemade bread.
Phil Green 2 months ago
I recall a big family Christmas a couple of years after leaving the military, staying with my mother. Christmas dinner was always a panicky thing for her. I told her, I would handle all the food and worry not, dear mater! It was sometime around 1100 when she said, "Isn't it about time you started the cooking?" I laughed. She liked Christmas dinner around 1300. "Mum, it will be ready on time." She seemed amazed that there was no flurry of activity. I had been cheffing for around twenty-five years at that point, and cooking for twelve or so wasn't traumatic!
Spencer's slave no longer 2 months ago
He is, why wouldn't he? I peel and deseed mine prior to roasting for soup.
Load More Replies... #3
My drunk husband picked a fight with his sister. Then refused to eat the dinner I spent 3 hours making. Then had the audacity to want me to feel sorry for him when he refused a reheated plate because it wasn't the same.
He has also stated we are not celebrating anymore holidays and if I try to he is moving out. ( He won't )
All I want for Christmas is a divorce.
Earonn - 2 months ago
I'm so sorry for these people. We have this one life on Earth, and that's what they (have to) do with it? There's no second chance. No reward for suffering. Why throw it away? Why suffer for years on end? What is it good for? - Nothing! Please, Pandas, never throw your life away like this.
Sue User 2 months ago
Listen to this wise person. I spent decades setting myself on fire to keep others warm. I finally stsrted cutting contact with toxic people, and holy heck. I think this weird feeling I am having is happiness.
Load More Replies... #4
We thought thanksgiving was ruined but it turns out, it will just be different than we wanted. My grandpa was diagnosed with terminal cancer last summer. We knew this would likely be his last thanksgiving with us. A few days ago he had a stroke and we didn’t think he’d be able to join us for thanksgiving dinner since he’s still in the hospital. Luckily enough, he’s being discharged in an hour and will be able to have dinner with us.
ETA: thank you for all of the encouraging words and empathy. My grandpa is an amazing man who set a really good example for who I want to be and who I want to surround myself with.
#5
Went to go pick up grandma from her dementia care home today, as soon as I pulled in she called and said she wasn’t feeling well. I ended up sitting with her for an hour catching up. When it got dark and I had to go she begged me to stay and gave me some food. I wanted to cry, she was asking me all these things about my life I couldn’t give her the answers to, I miss when she was a part of my life and not away spending her last days isolated. It’s horrible to have to go through.
Independent_wishbone:
Dementia is the worst. It's like you lose your loved one, but they're right there.
Scott McLeod 2 months ago
lost my mum to dementia and it broke my heart to see her after a gap of 2 years or so due to covid (i live 600 miles away from my home town)
Auntriarch 2 months ago
I was SO lucky (admittedly it doesn't always feel so) my parents moved to my town a year before covid and my father was diagnosed the beginning of the month that lockdown started.
Load More Replies... Phil Green 2 months ago
My wife's uncle only met me three times. I was in my forties and he and his wife had cared for my wife in her early teens. He developed Alzheimers. The second time we visited, he was obviously not the man I'd first met, and he kept looking at my wife quizzically. Eventually, he took me out into the garden and said, "I don't know who she is, but you'd better marry her. She's so lovely." I could have cried. He remembered me, but he couldn't recall his niece. It was heartbreaking.
Michele Jacobs 2 months ago
I lost my sweet mom 2 years ago to Alzheimer's. This hit me hard in the feels.
ROSESARERED 2 months ago (edited)
Yep, a long, slow goodbye...the last real thing my dearest dad said was I don't know who you are but I love you. I believe love remains regardless of the shell their brain becomes,. Miss you Father Dear, everyday
Panda Bear 2 months ago
Lost my grandpa to dementia a few years ago. Never liked him much but it was still hard.
#6
I asked for the address and never got a response. Responds 4 hours later: “Ok… well we already ate and everyone left… so just stay home and eat there.” Go on Ig and see the family pics. Thanks dad. That’s. That’s nice.
Nadine Debard 2 months ago
They did it on purpose. If my child was elsewhere and didn't know the address I would be the one to call and make sure they are able to come.
Load More Replies... #7
My dog suddenly had a stroke last night, after spending 1 hour finding an emergency vet that was open and another hour speeding there, my dog passed away at 1:50am right as we were about to carry her to the exam room. She was perfectly fine just 6 hours before.
Hippopotamuses 2 months ago (edited)
Similar for me. My Staffy/Sharpei cross had a similar thing happen. I took him to the dog park and he ran around like he was possessed. When we went back to the car, and he was 'strange.' Walking in circles and into walls when we got home. The worst dog-loss I've ever had. 100% to zero in half an hour. Needless to say, he had to be put down the next day.
Megalodon Meg 2 months ago
Sometimes it happens so fast with our furry friends and sometimes that's a blessing. I'm so sorry. May she rest in love.
#8
I announced I'm pregnant and the first thing my aunt said was "no wonder you look so fat".
Michael Largey 2 months ago (edited)
The kind of aunt who says stuff like that is often skinny.
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Karmageddon 2 months ago
In 9 months I'll lose weight, but you'll always be an insensitive, uncaring b!tch.
nottheactualphoto 2 months ago
A brilliant variation on the Churchill Comeback! Excellent.
Load More Replies... Nadine Debard 2 months ago
Fortunately you balance aunties' lack of kindness in the world <3
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#9
Mom decided to have a heart attack last week and passed away leaving me to cook by myself. 🙄
Humor helps a bit 💔.
Niels AirMax 2 months ago
I'm laughing way more than I should. And my Mom will laugh too when I tell her about this post. 😂
#10
Tooth infection that spread. Went to dentist yesterday to get antibiotics and it ballooned across my face overnight. So here I am, sitting in ER triage with a 101.3 fever and a face that hurts like hell.
Mike Rodrick 2 months ago
I developed an abcess tooth & of course my dentist out of town. The worst pain I've ever had. Fortunately I was referred to another dentist who wasn't happy about having his barbecue interrupted but he did it.
Sue User 2 months ago (edited)
Guys lucky. My brother went to ER and they said " we dont do dental work". Ended up having to take two rounds of antibiotics by time got see dentist.
Saber4 2 months ago
True. ER’s won’t do dental. Online doctor services will give antibiotics sent to your pharmacy. Great service!
Load More Replies... #11
Uninvited to the family Thanksgiving due to being trans. Of course that's not the reason I was given but we all know the real reason.
Child of the Stars 2 months ago
You can come to my house instead. We don't do the traditional food because I absolutely hate cooking, so it's just frozen pizza, but there's no stupidity at my house 😊
nicholas nolan 2 months ago
I'm your dad now. I'm proud of you(so, so proud) but you really need to get on cleaning the garage like you promised.
Michael Largey 2 months ago (edited)
Never attend a Thanksgiving dinner where the live turkeys outnumber the dead ones.
Otto Katz 2 months ago
You can come to my house, we make a kick-a*s bird, and all the fixings. But no stringbean cassarole, because that s***s ss.
nicholas nolan 2 months ago
I hated it too, until my daughter started making is with fresh beans, lightly simmered in chicken stock, then baked with fresh cream, butter, and mushroom, and topped with fried onions a d**n sight better than French's.
Load More Replies... #12
A severe ulcerative colitis flare that landed me in the hospital two days ago. I’m still here, and tonight’s thanksgiving feast: 1 gallon of colonoscopy prep 🤢
Edit- thanks for all the good wishes! You’re all keeping me company while I sit on the toilet for the next several hours.
Papa 2 months ago
My father had to get a colonoscopy when he was in the hospital also. He finally got tired of getting out of bed, going to the toilet, back to the bed, etc, so he stayed on the toilet but left the door open so he could watch TV.
Ginger ninja 2 months ago
Genius. I wish I had mine in hospital so I could’ve done that
Load More Replies... Ginger ninja 2 months ago (edited)
I’ve had a colonoscopy and the worst bit about it is the prep. I had to drink a laxative every few hours the evening before and the drink was like flavoured salt water. I couldnt drink it all because I was throwing it back up but managed enough that it did the job. I almost wish I had been in the hospital, I was at home which almost made it worse and couldnt eat anything while my mum and brother could. My mum tried her best and at least didnt eat in front of me but my brother was rubbing it in.
#13
My husband and I were in a pretty bad car accident, Monday afternoon. He ended up with a bad concussion and staples in the side of his head. I have a total of 13 stitches in my right hand/wrist. Not to mention all the bruising, whiplash, and everything else that comes with being rear ended while at a dead stop by someone most likely doing 45+. We're lucky to be alive. We were the first car hit and somehow got pushed in to the median, while the car that hit us kept going and ended up hitting the car that was in front of us. There ended up being 5 cars involved in the whole ordeal. We were supposed to go to my in-laws today, but his concussion has made it difficult for him to eat or even sit in a lit room, so we ended up staying home. I'm thankful to be alive and there's always next year.
Edit: Just wanted to say thank you for all the well wishes, advice, and awards. Didn't expect my little story to get so much attention. We are definitely on top of this situation.
#14
I had to put my cat to sleep. We knew it was coming with her diagnosis of kidney failure, but she took a big turn for the worse and we put her down yesterday. Our hearts are broken. And we just hosted Thanksgiving dinner. I am so glad the day is over.
nicholas nolan 2 months ago
We lost our Maine C**n mix boy Romeo on Thanksgiving Day 2018. I will never not miss him, but I'm happy to say Lorcan, our baby Maine C**n boy loves to curl up in the hall in Romeo's favorite spot, and that's something. To me.
Craig Reynolds 2 months ago
We lost one of our cats on 10/01/2025, and I couldn't even talk to anyone for 3 days. I can't imagine how they hosted a family dinner. I would have called it off and offered everything I had to host it to anyone willing to host it for the rest of the family.
Hugo 2 months ago
My neighbour's cat, that was quite a character, used to come home with a slice of ham given to him by another neighbour. He later had kidney failure and had to be put down. I think the salt in the ham was to blame.
Megalodon Meg 2 months ago
I'm so sorry. Maybe not the ham though unless it was given everyday. If it was like once a month or something that's normally fine.
Load More Replies... #15
My 4 yo being hospitalized with rsv, the flu and pneumonia. Been here since Tuesday with no sign of leaving. Whole pediatric ward is full. These poor babies.
Nadine Debard 2 months ago (edited)
Exactly. And in this case it's vaccinated adults who protect unvaccinated children (and other at risk people). People tend to think at individual level instead of population level.
Load More Replies... Panda Bear 2 months ago
I had cancer on thanksgiving when I was a child. Thankfully I was still able to have thanksgiving with my family.
Nadine Debard 2 months ago
Wow. And thankfully you are able to write here today. Good for you.
Load More Replies... #16
My dad telling my brother and i that he should’ve beat us more as kids.
nicholas nolan 2 months ago
"Hold on, dad, I'm almost done filling this brand new dress sock with quarters."
Michael Largey 2 months ago
"True, Dad. More beatings might have gotten you in jail where you belonged."
#17
I called my mom to wish her a Happy Thanksgiving and said she had a dream that I got a lesbian haircut and she was so worried I’d become a lesbian. Nothing like a little homophobia for the holidays.
Michael Largey 2 months ago
"Gee, Mom, I dreamt about you being committed as a lunatic. I wasn't asleep - it's just something I dream about."
Nizumi 2 months ago
OP's mom should meet one of my family members who greatest pride is that they "raised [their] son to not be gay."
Michael Largey 2 months ago (edited)
Raising your child not to be gay is like raising them not to have blue eyes.
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#18
A judgmental dietitian who bulldozed the menu. There are 364 other days in the year for health consciousness. Let me have my carbs and sodium.
Auntriarch 2 months ago
It's what you do most of the time that counts, not what you do occasionally.
Child of the Stars 2 months ago
I'm 1000% with OP on this. I remember going to the county fair a couple of years ago and running into our pediatrician. He looked at the giant bag of cotton candy (seriously, this thing was as long as my then-4yo was tall), and laughed and said he'd overlook the junk food because it's the fair.
Panda Bear 2 months ago
If someone gets between me and a traditional thanksgiving meal I’ll eat them
Dixie 2 months ago (edited)
I had a gastric bypass in 2014 (on my birthday of all days) and now thanks to a kidney transplant (which I am so grateful for) and long term prednisone use to keep from rejecting said kidney, I am on mounjaro for steroid induced T2D, I eat so d**n little iDGAF what any nutritionist would have to say about my holiday meal, I would be eating at least a few bites of everything, sodium be d****d!
#19
Not having my mom around to celebrate.
CSC 2 months ago
Sad. I lost my mom five days ago and my dad nine months ago. First Thanksgiving and Christmas with both of them gone. My sister said I can't be an orphan because I am an adult but I beg to differ!
S Bow 2 months ago
You absolutely are an orphan; my brother and I said "We're orphans now" when we lost our mom. I was 60 and he was 55. Age has nothing to do with it. Deep condolences for your loss.
Load More Replies... #20
My neighbor is unable to come to dinner with us because he’s recovering from covid. I hate he’s spending it alone; he’s been spending holidays with us for years. We packed up a few plates for him and brought them over, so we got to visit on the porch for a minute but it’s not the same.
Even my mom says it’s not the same without him.
#21
My depression and inability to socialize.
#22
Gestational diabetes :( being pregnant and not being able to eat hardly any of the food was not super fun.
#23
Didn't remove the bag of organs inside the Turkey. My mother in law took one bite, threw up, and had to stop eating. Now we are all awkwardly sitting around trying to find something entertaining to watch on Netflix. HELP!
BrownEyedGrrl 2 months ago
I was 18 when I hosted my first Thanksgiving dinner. My dad asked where the giblet gravy was. I said this turkey didn't have giblets. Turkey caught on fire. Dad threw it out into the snow. Rinsed it off & ate it.
nicholas nolan 2 months ago
Maybe not. I missed a second bag that was stuck in the neck hole one year, and while the bird smelled good, the whole thing tasted vaguely of plastic.
Load More Replies... Dixie 2 months ago
So sorry that happened. I think the number one priority of parents should be teaching your children to cook, some day they will be adults and will need to feed themselves something other than drive thru or take out. You do your child no favors when you don't teach them the things they need too know to be adults, they may not like chores, but chores teach them how to care for themselves.
UnclePanda 2 months ago
Unfortunate but it doesn't ruin the taste of the turkey (sigh). Could MIL have an agenda?
Day Andie 2 months ago
Depends on if they put the giblets in paper or plastic.
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TiNaBoNiNa 2 months ago
You always have to check every crevice even if you have to go up to your elbow. They get sneaky and hide all kinds of stuff in there.
Day Andie 2 months ago
Yeah, neck, giblet bag, old shoe, lego block, golf putter, porcupine, tv remote --it's pretty scary.
Load More Replies... #24
We're hosting and my wife has been cooking since yesterday. This morning my sister in law called and said our niece (her daughter) is sick and they won't be coming. Then later that day she decided that her daughter is "only a little bit sick" so maybe they were going to come after all. We told her that being a little bit sick is not a thing, you're either contagious or you're not, and she then accused us of not wanting to spend time with her and her and my wife got into a shouting match over the phone. Now about a half hour ago we found out that my father in law isn't coming, partly because hes getting over some long COVID issues and partly because his girlfriend didn't come over to his place last night and he's pissed at her. So now the only people eating with us are my wife's other sister and her boyfriend, who had a Thanksgiving earlier today that apparently didn't go well and they just want to get home. So they'll probably leave shortly after we eat. We have a whole turkey, potatoes, green bean casserole, deviled eggs, 2 pies, a banana cream dessert and plenty of drinks for 4 people.
Pamina 2 months ago
Now you'll have meals for all week and you won't need to cook for several days:)
Michael Largey 2 months ago (edited)
And the OP will be well enough to eat them.
Load More Replies... Day Andie 2 months ago
Invite friends that didn't get enough Thanksgiving. I NEVER can get enough T-giving@
Nuku Nyara 2 months ago
Or nake some to go plates and serve some homeless ❤️
Load More Replies... Craig Reynolds 2 months ago
More leftover turkey for turkey sandwiches. devilled eggs, pies, and plenty of leftover alcohol? I'd be secretly smiling when my wife wasn't looking...
Dixie 2 months ago (edited)
We were supposed to have my nephew and his gf and her kids for Christmas dinner one year, my nephew texted said he didn't feel good and didn't think they would make it, then he collapsed in the shower. His gf's mom came and drove him to the ER as gf had just had her right ankle rebroken and set, since it didn't heal right the first time. He texted me from the ER, they diagnosed him with stage 4 lymphoma at the ER. He passed in June at the age of 36. 😭 I sure miss him. His gf had his memorial the first week of August and announced her engagement to some new random dude by the end of the same month 🙄 what a piece of work she was.
#25
Finding out the hard way that the in-law family I thought accepted me doesn’t acknowledge my and my husband’s marriage. Also one of my brother-in-laws got smashed and hit on me relentlessly.
Niamh_ie 2 months ago
The following comment was- A few reasons, but most notably because their faith claims that our relationship is an abomination or some such. We also got a pamphlet on why Dungeons and Dragons is evil, so that was good. It’s a good come back, but I am, unfortunately, the meekly stunned to silence sort and said nothing in defense of myself.
#26
Getting a divorce and being estranged from my family. It’s been a lonely Thanksgiving. I volunteered all day, which helped, but I’ve just been drinking in bed since I got home a few hours ago.
Nuku Nyara 2 months ago
Sorry you were lonely, thank you for being so gracious to volunteer ❤️
#27
Girlfriend broke up with me last night so I've been spending the entire Thanksgiving trying to act like it doesn't bother me.
#28
My relative’s dog ate the surface of our pumpkin pie and an entire package of bread rolls.
#29
My stepfather is fighting pancreatic cancer and my mother is beyond exhausted and stressed. Ordered premade dinners but this is not a day to celebrate.
#30
Kid brought home hand foot mouth from daycare. Infected everyone. We were going to host this year but we had to call it off.
Elio 2 months ago
I've had that before, but I got it when I was 22. I wasn't even around any kids, just other adults in my ceramics class. No one else had it but the doctor at urgent care said sometimes asymptomatic carriers are a thing. On the plus side, I did have super nice feet for a little while after all the skin peeling was done. No more callouses.
Nadine Debard 2 months ago
My son had it twice. Apparently I already had it as a child because I didn't get it. Fortunately my son didn't have mouth ulcerations. It was already bad enough.
TiNaBoNiNa 2 months ago
Apparently, it's spread via spit, snot, and stool, all things that kids spread around from not washing their hands. If you're an adult and don't wash your hands, you're just nasty.
Nadine Debard 2 months ago
You don't have kids, do you? Or I didn't get your comment. Adults with kids often share food and drinks and kids very often sneeze in their relatives' faces. You don't need more to get infected. There's nothing nasty being infected as an adult.
Load More Replies... #31
My first Thanksgiving without my family because I’m working at my vet clinic (I’m a tech) this weekend. Watched a dog pass away in a brutal fashion this morning. She was suffering and continued to until her last breath.
#32
My husband lost his job on Tuesday morning. Needless to say, we're not in the mood to celebrate.
Edit: I genuinely appreciate all the well wishes from everyone, it actually helped me feel better. The kindness of strangers is nice to see and helps keep my hope in humanity alive. We are not completely ungrateful or hopeless, but stunned and feeling turned inside out for sure. I know it'll pass and we'll be ok eventually. Alot of folks have it way worse, I never forget that and my heart goes out to them.
Mike Rodrick 2 months ago
A job loss is 1 of the most traumatic experiences people will face. Especially if it's unexpected.
Craig Reynolds 2 months ago
I agree, panic sets in immediately, even if you have an emergency fund.
Load More Replies... Babynursemissy 2 months ago
When I was still married to my ex, he lost his job around Thanksgiving one year (they purposely over hired). We had 2 kids under the age of 6 and I was in nursing school (not working).
Nuku Nyara 2 months ago
I feel this. I also lost my job unexpectedly at the beginning of October. I wish for your husband and I both to get decently waged jobs for November 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
#33
My kidneys are in stage 4 failure, starting dialysis and I’m terrified.
#34
Broke up with my long term partner of 9 years and I’ll be homeless in a few days.
#35
Finding out my grandma [is gone] from an instagram post, nobody in my family bothered to call me to let me know she was even sick.
YakFactory 2 months ago
That's so sad. I'm sorry for your loss, and that you have a family who can't communicate with you in a civil manner.
#36
Boyfriend of 3 years (who i was pretty sure I would eventually marry) broke up with me a few weeks ago and said he didn’t actually love me. Haven’t been eating or sleeping properly since then. Started therapy bc I didn’t know what else to do, got told I might have BPD a few days ago. Woke up Tuesday with a sinus infection.
Nadine Debard 2 months ago
He did the right think, weeks before the holidays. Their lives would have been miserable if he didn't quit OP. She will understand this soon.
JK 2 months ago (edited)
I dont get why you were downvoted. You were right. Yeah, s***s for OP being made single, but if he wasnt feeling it, better than dragging it out. Plus, OP having undiagnosed BPD - thats not fun to live/love with, if anything its exhausting being with someone with BPD who won't even get help. Took her BF leaving her, but she'll be in a better space one day and find the right person for her. S***s short term, but long term will be brighter
Load More Replies... #37
Found out on Monday my 11 year old furbaby has cancer and the vet said there's nothing they can do. She has 2-4 months of life left at best. 😥.
#38
"I'll believe in women having rights when it's no longer women and children first on a sinking ship"
Hasn't really been an issue since like 1914 so idk where my dad got this from.
Michael Largey 2 months ago
"I can assure you that you're going overboard before anyone else."
Sam Trudeau 2 months ago
Source: 2012 interview. Basically, they now prioritize "vulnerable" so children, yes, but also elderly or handicapped first.
Lee Gilliland 2 months ago
It wasn't "women and children first" even on the Titanic, which was 1912. Depending on the officer, several allowed men in when there were no nearby women. Tell your dad to take history lessons, that's a "rule" much honored in the breach.
Sue User 2 months ago
I read a stastistic thsy said the rste of survival on the Titanic, was the same for first class males versus third class children.
azubi 2 months ago
I'd love to cite that, but would prefer another source than "someone on the internet". Do you happen to have one?
Load More Replies... #39
Not having anyone to spend it with.
#40
Working a 12 hour shift.
Debby Keir 2 months ago
As do the doctors, nurses, hospital staff, fire, police etc etc. Take pleasure in knowing you're not alone, and that someone thinks you're an essential service.
Babynursemissy 2 months ago
Uh, I’ve been doing that for 26 years. My kids grew up thinking celebrating holidays a day or two late was normal (me a nurse, ex an EMT/dispatcher). We still do that - I’m still in nursing, youngest son is a firefighter and his fiancé is a paramedic.
Pheebs 2 months ago (edited)
Boy do I feel this. Worked retail late teens/early 20s. As the only young team member not from out of state, I was expected to always work holidays - literally Christmas was the only day the store was closed. We always had a skeleton crew - one manager, one cafe worker, and one (me) young employee stuck doing dual duty customer service and register. Plus, not a lot of people shopping a large chain bookstore on a major holiday. Minus, I was rarely saved food if anyone but my mom hosted, so a few PBJ sandwich dinners.
#41
This is minor to some of y’all’s woes this holiday. What ruined it for me was a family pic taken at the end before everyone left. I’ve gotten fat. It’s been gradual, I knew I went up a couple jeans sizes over the past couple years and obviously I have mirrors and didn’t think I looked THAT bad…but holy [cow]. Now it’s time to rein in some rather fun habits, but it needs to be done.
#42
One kid in the emergency room with a reaction to the flu. Got home on Thanksgiving then the newborn had symptoms and got sent to urgent care. Pretty all around terrible week. I still feel sorry for all the families still in the emergency room.
#43
Dog got out leading to a two hour search and a cold dinner.
UnclePanda 2 months ago (edited)
One holiday, I accidentally let my sister's rescued Greyhound slip through the front door (as in, didn't block his head with my knee fast enough) and Earl did indeed take off like lightning. The speed was stunning. Sis and BIL immediately enacted the Dog's Out Protocol and it was like watching a trained rescue team as they scrambled to action. Jim immediately jumped in the car and went long, while sis and the two boys each searched a different circumference from the house. They caught up with Earl about 4 blocks away and he looked very pleased with himself. When Jim came back, we learned he'd driven off in socks but no shoes. All told, recovery took about 10 minutes.
S Bow 2 months ago
This would be awesome to watch, and well done your family for having a plan. It sounds like it's not the first time they've had to put it into practice.
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Craig Reynolds 2 months ago
I wouldn't care in the least about a cold dinner! I'd just be relieved and happy the dog was back home, even if it wasn't my dog.
#44
The same thing that ruins every day, PTSD.
I think people are just heartless creatures.
#45
Woke up to $700 in fraudulent charges to my account and couldn't call the bank. On top of being stuck at home I had something to stress me out even though I know it's easily taken care of.
#46
My dad went into cardiac arrest Saturday night. He's awake now but there is very likely a ton of damage to vital organs and brain function as he was without a pulse for a long time. Thankful he is still here with a hope that he recovers enough to still somewhat enjoy the rest of his life.
#47
Uncle Ched trying to fry a turkey for the first time.
#48
My mom generously booked my flight home for Thanksgiving. Except she booked it under my maiden name because I got married relatively recently and she isn’t used to my married name yet. We didn’t discover the error until she sent me my flight details yesterday afternoon, and it was too late to change the name on the ticket. We had to cancel the flight, and there wasn’t another flight in the right time frame, so I had to stay home.
I actually had a perfectly nice day with my husband and his mom, but I feel really bad for my mom because she’s been having a tough time and I wanted to see her.
Pheebs 2 months ago
Not everyone has/travels with a passport. It’s fairly common in the US for people to not have one, actually, so we use our state issued IDs. I’m kind of surprised she couldn’t get her ticket updated, considering most of them have been digital passes for years.
Load More Replies... #49
Big dinner. Turkey. Stuffing. Mash potatoes. Corn bread. The whole 9 yards.
A colleagues daughter says she has a stomach ache and doesn't feel well. Gut feeling is making me suspicious. We sit down. She gets up and proceeds to vomit all over the floor. Thankfully she missed the table. Just all on the floor. Poor kid had a stomach virus she didn't know about. She didn't eat much after that.
We spent 10 minutes cleaning it up. Sadly nobody wanted to have the stuffed after that. I was sad cause it was amazing.
Papa 2 months ago
Same here. I got a bad one on Christmas day years ago. I didn't eat a bite for 30 hours.
Load More Replies... Ginger ninja 2 months ago
Hey nobody was eating so that means more leftovers for later. Silver linings
Smeghead Tribble Down Under 2 months ago
And she couldn't get to the bathroom/outside/a sink/any kind of container? Kids are so fkn disgusting >.<
#50
My wife needed emergency surgery today. Thankful she is still alive, for great nurses and skilled surgeons.
#51
My husband and I got into an argument and he’s been ignoring me since then. Says he wishes he wasn’t spending it with me.
#52
Influenza A
We are better now and fever free and decided to postpone Thanksgiving to Saturday, everyone agreed which is nice.
#53
Grandma on a breathing machine from covid. Tomorrow will probably be the worst day of my life.
#55
Just got done with an introductory, probationary period at a new job. It’s a traveling job. No travel for two weeks and all work from home. My family knew I was home and were just relentless in getting to me. My ex is so terribly negative it was the last straw. She complained that the car I gifted my daughter, that she uses free of charge, had [bad] tires on them and she had to walk partly up a drive-way. Tires were replaced over the summer and again- free. I pay for the car and the insurance.
I lied about having work just to get away from all this bs. On the way, I had a full blown panic attack. Mixture of work and family stress. I pulled over needed about 2 hrs to collect myself. It was the worst I ever had. Thought I was going to pass out.
Recovered and spent a glorious day at a zoo and just doing what I wanted to. Read. Watched a great documentary on Ralph Lauren. Podcasts on the way home were amazing. Empty highway. I’m loving life.
Come home to my mother complaining to me about me not working on my yard enough. Wasn’t thinking and placed a turkey in the oven that I carved. It had been in the fridge too long cause I skipped town. I’m pretty sure I have food poisoning.
I’m hoping it’s just for 24 hours cause my daughters come over tomorrow for a late thanksgiving meal I do just for them.
Takeaway: I need to manage stress better. Hit the gym harder? Idk. But that panic attack was 2 hrs of hell. Never ever again. As soon as I recover from this food poisoning I’ll research some. Thanksgiving isn’t over yet though. Like they always do, my daughters will make it better.
#56
Having our extended family Thanksgiving canceled because my aunt who always hosts lives in Buffalo NY and no one is really getting in and out of the Buffalo area right now due to the 7 feet of snow. And no one else offered to host (our house is NOWHERE near big enough for over 2 dozen people). So we just didn't see anyone else at all and it was just our immediate family of 4 today which meant my dad watched football all day, my son played video games, and it was basically just another day. But at least I've got 5 days off from my incredibly toxic job.
#57
My now ex emotionally cheated on me and dumped me two weeks ago. I still love him even though he’s been sucky and it’s hard being apart for the holiday.
#58
Lower intestinal issues. Food poisoning or virus I don't know. Started Saturday night and still dealing with it today. Also, started a chest cold yesterday.
#59
Woke up and hugged my dog. Wife said, "You're disgusting. I can't even look at you right now." I didn't nothing wrong the night before...
We're having company over today. I had to go for a run just to feel better and get some perspective. She's feeling bad and just wanted to drag someone else down. But really makes me feel like I don't want to put in the work on her anymore.
#60
We went without my husband. He threw a snit and I didn't beg him to come with us. I need to pull the trigger on a divorce, but I'm so, so sad.
#61
Chronic illness. A really rare one that was partially triggered by my family not listening to me when I asked for help. I should be fine in a couple months and they apologized (and are helping now) but I feel like [awful].
#62
Had a bad Asthma attack, couldn’t get out of bed for lack of oxygen(I hate going to the ER or doctors in general), Gave my mom and sister directions on how to make my baked Mac and cheese over the phone , was in and out of sleep all day, finally mustered the strength to get dress and say hi to all the family( took me almost a hour to do this) they we’re mostly gone, haven’t eaten a thing today yet somehow I have no appetite, writing this from an ER bed where I’ve been given steroids for lung inflammation, an IV for fluids, And currently waiting for a second breathing treatment! My stubborn [self] should’ve came to the ER last night!
Lady Eowyn 2 months ago
Your stupid self, if asthma attack is that bad, you should have gone to the ER at once. And if you know you have asthma, are you being treated? Do you have rescue inhalers on hand?
ROSESARERED 2 months ago
Lucky his lung didn't collapse...go to the er if your meds are not helping, asthma can k**l
#63
Stepped off the high curb at my uncles house, and twisted my ankle real bad. Stupid clumsy old people IRL.
AtMostAFabulist 2 months ago
I hate high curbs. I stepped off one at my local mall , and fell. A car stopped in front of me and and the people in it just looked at me as I got up and got my stuff together.
Lee Gilliland 2 months ago
Do not go to Egypt. Their curbs are 5" and awkward.
Load More Replies... murmelinpaiva 2 months ago
My husband tripped on a curb, fell, and broke 4 ribs. Not Thanksgiving, just 40th reunion.
#65
I worked hard for 2 days. Cooking and baking getting ready for my three kids and spouses to come over. 6 grandchildren I adore. My in laws (2nd marriage so not my kids grandparents) weren't going to come. She, my MIL is just drama and rude. Anyway, my partner calls and convinces them to come in the afternoon for a bit. They come down and proceed to drink 2 bottles of wine they brought! OMG! I was cooking and getting things together when my middle kid come in the back door almost in tears. He's going through a divorce and my MIL from hell critizised his parenting. Then my daughters in law come in just in shock with everything she's saying. I tell my partner that it, you make them plates and after they eat they are out of here. She comes in and is loud and rude to the grandchildren. I eat at the kids table because I just couldn't listen to her. My partner keeps telling her "Mom, let the kids speak". So after dinner I look outside and she's passed out in the car and my FIL is leaving. I haven't spoken to her since. She calls and I tell my partner, you take it. I never want her near me again. I don't care if you are old, you don't have to be mean. We have a wedding next year and I think I'll allow them to come but she can't drink. At all. Not a drop.
#67
On my way to my sister's, my son who is 4 complained about a headache. We get to my sister's, he plops on the couch, he cries about his head some more. I pick him up and he pukes all over me, the floor and on the dinner table. Luckily the food wasn't out so no-one else's Thanksgiving took a big hit. He's up running around now at home... toddlers are wild.
#68
It was going all good until my dad started to gaslight me and bad mouth me while eating dinner. He was fine a few minutes ago and then it came out of nowhere. Now, my mom's crying in her room because all she wanted was a nice dinner but it turned into me just being bad mouthed for 30 minutes while I ate in silence.
Mike Rodrick 2 months ago
We can always count on our families being the most toxic in our lives.
#69
Same thing that ruins it and every other family holiday every year. The closest relative to my age is 7 years older than me. My whole family still treats me(21) like a 5 year old, and nobody lets me join the conversations or attempts to talk to me. On Easter this year, I actually got forced to play with the 5 year olds the entire time (I didn't even get to eat because they wouldn't leave my drums alone). I'm not going through that again so I just locked myself in my room this Thanksgiving, told everyone I'm sick. Still in here as I write this, waiting for the last few to leave.
#70
Covid. Never had it before, and have been traveling for work on probably 30 plane rides this year. No covid.
We go to see a local concert, boom. Covid for the both of us.
C is for coughing, of which there's a lot
O is for "oh my god, what have we finally caught"
V is for "viral" - no ER, thank you very much
I is for immobile, can't even make our lunch
D is for "[Dang] I'm tired" finish this song yourself.
AtMostAFabulist 2 months ago
I was vaccinated in 2020, and still got covid pneumonia. Was in the hospital 9 days. 5 of them in ICU.
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#71
My dad got covid and decided to do dishes and move around the house like nothing was wrong after testing positive, and gave it to my mom and i. so we can’t see the rest of our family at my grandparent’s house like we usually do.
Ginger ninja 2 months ago
My mums partner is like this whenever he gets sick with anything and passes it off to my mum and I - and I have a low immune system so I get everything easier and a lot worse than both of them. I want to k**l him every time, especially since whenever mum or I are sick he’s constantly telling us to quarantine away (me in my room and my poor mum gets shoved to the spare room - he doesnt go in there when he’s sick though even though this is her house) because he “cant afford to get sick”…
#72
Same as every year. I don't connect with much of my extended family so I sort of just of just mill about, sometimes holding weak conversations, eventually finding a quiet place and waiting for food to be served. I don't really like family gatherings in general I guess.
#73
My puppy had to be admitted to the hospital because of an unknown infection causing vomiting and loss of appetite. She’s so tiny 😖.
#74
My general contractor.... we should have been in our home by September, but we're still down to the studs and living with my parents.
Mike Rodrick 2 months ago
Contractors can be a major aggravation & pain in the a*s. I'm speaking from experience.
#76
I'm home alone sick while the wife and kid are having a great time at her parents house. First couple hours were fine, but now I'm depressed and lonely.
#77
Being sick. Not all that bad since I get to chill and watch football, but it [feels bad] to miss out on being around family and gorging on food.
#78
I need a break from people asking me for favors. Just a break, I still want to help people. I just need some time off so my mind can heal. If it keeps up I might just move away from family.
#79
My husband being an overworked-low paid resident. Didn’t really ruin it for me. But it did for him I know. Was suppose to be home at 12. Still at hospital and it’s 6pm. Will probably be there till tomorrow.
#80
I have the flu- I can hear my family enjoying themselves (I'm the mom) and I'm sequestered in my bedroom. My beloved daughter brought me a plate at least lol.
#81
Food poisoning. I made an elaborate stew last night. We were going to go to the first family Thanksgiving in a long time (today) and my husband and I had his and her explosions in our bathrooms. We're just now feeling a little better.
#82
Sent my son ahead to his Aunt's for the week since he's out of school and I'm a single father. Was gonna meet up with them today. Ended up with an abscess tooth and having to pay the last of my money to get antibiotic prescription and to get it filled. Calling him to tell him and hearing the disappointment broke my heart.
#84
Went to my boyfriend’s family thanksgiving for the first time this year. On the way out I slipped off the first stair into some mud. Definitely one of the more embarrassing things I’ve done.
#86
Tried to appease my wife and do 2 thanksgiving this year. We got to my parents about 2 o’clock ish dinner ready at 4. We had to leave to go to her parents as soon as our food hit the table and now i have to wait another two hours before I can eat. Needless to say my “Hanger” is cranked up to a 10. But it’ll be somehow my fault at the end of the evening.
Ginger ninja 2 months ago
You know you and your wife can go to your own parents individually, you dont have to be together for one day
#87
It wasn’t ruined, but my grandma asked me several intrusive questions including how much I weigh and when my boyfriend is going to propose. Lol.
murmelinpaiva 2 months ago
Grandmas are like that. Sixty years later, Grams is gone and sis is still single.
#88
My mother not respecting my boundaries about smoking around my baby and telling my friend who lost her baby to set her feelings aside and hold my baby.
Colleen Glim 2 months ago
I think OPs mother was the one being cruel to the friend
Load More Replies... #89
Chinese restaurants are *not* open like many (including myself) assume.
Michael Largey 2 months ago
Our local newspaper lists what restaurants will be open on Thanksgiving. The Oriental ones here always are.
Papa 2 months ago
Perhaps OP did check, and that's how he or she knows they are not open.
Load More Replies... #90
My 4 year relationship coming to an end at her parents place. She wants to have a family and I'm not ready.. it's ok. I love her so much, I want her to find what she wants. I wish I were ready. I want to be with her so much but also can't have a child just to be with her. I wish her the best and I'll always love her. If you love someone, sometimes you have to let them go. It's been a very tearful and sad Thanksgiving for us but I support her in everything she wants in life. I ask my guides to look out for her, despite her already having her own. I truly hope everyone gets to experience the deep love we've experienced. And I hope most men out there can understand when to let go and when to fight. Sometimes letting go too early is giving up and fighting too long is hanging on. My brothers, should you be in emotional turmoil--don't hurt the ones you love because it's too hard to face the truth of what is happening. If you love someone, sometimes the best option is learning how to let them go. Peace be with you all. 💛.
Colleen Glim 2 months ago
Good on you for recognizing you’re not ready to be a parent. So many children deal with this every day. Parents need to be prepared to invest the time, money, and effort into raising a child. If you don’t feel like you can do that, don’t have children
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What do you think ?
Earthquake903 2 months ago
The last Thanksgiving I had was ruined by the reelection of Donald Trump. He's probably gonna ruin every single holiday from now on.
Lady Eowyn 2 months ago
With SNAP benefits gone, even having Thanksgiving dinner is going to be problematical for a lot of people. (SNAP = food stamps)
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Ace 2 months ago
My first question when I saw this was, "hang on, isn't it still a couple of weeks away?" swiftly followed by "why has BP just resurfaced o 3-y-o thread about random people going through a bad time?"
Otto Katz 2 months ago
Because thanksgiving is 3 weeks away, and people are going to be going through it all over again soon. Get your emergency plans in place.
Load More Replies... Lee Gilliland 2 months ago
Our last Thanksgiving was messed up because my credit card was stolen the Sunday before and the replacement didn't come in time. I threw my hands up in the air and declared we were all now Japanese and ordered in a couple of buckets of KFC - it's the people that are important.
Earthquake903 2 months ago
The last Thanksgiving I had was ruined by the reelection of Donald Trump. He's probably gonna ruin every single holiday from now on.
Lady Eowyn 2 months ago
With SNAP benefits gone, even having Thanksgiving dinner is going to be problematical for a lot of people. (SNAP = food stamps)
Load More Replies... Ace 2 months ago
My first question when I saw this was, "hang on, isn't it still a couple of weeks away?" swiftly followed by "why has BP just resurfaced o 3-y-o thread about random people going through a bad time?"
Otto Katz 2 months ago
Because thanksgiving is 3 weeks away, and people are going to be going through it all over again soon. Get your emergency plans in place.
Load More Replies... Lee Gilliland 2 months ago
Our last Thanksgiving was messed up because my credit card was stolen the Sunday before and the replacement didn't come in time. I threw my hands up in the air and declared we were all now Japanese and ordered in a couple of buckets of KFC - it's the people that are important.
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