It’s November — you can almost smell the turkey and all the fixings roasting away in a hot oven.
Norman Rockwell's Thanksgiving
But, before you get too excited for the Norman Rockwell version of this favorite American holiday, here are some fun suggestions for infusing some new, maybe even exotic ideas, to your Thanksgiving holiday status quo.
–Pinterest, anyone? Scour the internet and chat with friends to find some new and unique dish to add to your Thanksgiving tableau. Toss in tastes that are not so common to the season, such as pairing a pumpkin pie with a Italian-baked cannolli.
–Nothing will spice up your Thanksgiving table like inviting a new guest. Consider a friend or neighbor who will bring stimulating conversation and perhaps their own favorite, traditional dish to share.
–Embrace the true spirit of the season by adopting a needy family. Or devote some time to a local shelter or organization that could use your time and talents to make a difference in the lives of people who need it.
–Turn off the television and turn on some music instead. Converse, engage, sip cocoa and play board games as you gaze at a crackling fire in the fireplace and not the usual blare of images on a television or computer screen.
–If you’re crew is shy about admitting their gratitude, send around an empty jar and ask guests and family members to write a quick note that details all their many blessings. It doesn’t have to be an essay; Post-it notes will do. Then read aloud at dinner.
–Yams are celebrated in Nigeria and farmers in the far East mark the Moon Festival at this time of year. Research world traditions and bring one to your table. Get the kids in on the fun. 
–Speaking of those little youngsters, let them pick an easy recipe all their own and give them the chance to create their own culinary masterpieces at Thanksgiving. Sliced apples and a side of warm, gooey caramel are a nice start.
–Take a look back into family archives and bring an old, little-known tradition back to the table. Search Grandma’s recipes and make them your own. Or pull out that precious china, dust it off and create a display that harkens back to another day.
Kerri S. Mabee can be reached at kerri.mabee@swrnn.com. Follow me on Twitter @kerrimabee.
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