By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition that draws families and friends together, weaving a heartwarming tapestry of gratitude, nostalgia and unity. It’s a time to pause and appreciate life’s blessings, share stories that bridge generations and create memories that become treasured pieces of family history.

As loved ones gather around the table each year on the fourth Thursday of November , the laughter and joy that fills the air can inspire deep thankfulness. Many families take a moment to reflect on their blessings, often sharing heartfelt gratitude in turn. This tradition becomes more than a mere formality; it transforms into a celebration of life’s gifts, past and present. 

Yet, Thanksgiving also serves as a poignant reminder of those who are no longer with us, as families unite to honor their legacies through stories and shared memories.

The Luverne Journal invited the community to share their most treasured Thanksgiving memories and valued traditions. The responses were as warm and comforting as the holiday itself, painting a vivid picture of the moments that make this season so special.

Memories from the Heart of Crenshaw County

“My in-laws gather for a huge meal. I’ve been attending the celebration for 25 years and each one is a bit unique. Attendance is usually around 100, sometimes more. It’s a time to celebrate birthdays, baby showers, and graduations at the same time. It’s more convenient since the family comes from all parts of the state, Michigan, Florida and Texas. My favorite recipe is my grandmother’s homemade meatballs that we’ve passed down to four generations, served with a side of rice. My most favorite Thanksgiving memory is from my first Thanksgiving with my in-laws! It was the largest gathering I had ever seen, and I look forward to it every year. I’m most thankful for my family, good health and God’s grace and mercy.” ~ Michelle May, Grady

“My grandmother, Grace Montgomery, had a beautiful blue glass dish she always used for cranberry sauce. It’s the perfect size and shape for the “canberry” to fit in. After she passed, I inherited the dish and still bring it to our gatherings, making sure it holds the jellied cranberry sauce, not the whole berry kind. I also make Pistachio Salad like my grandmother did. These traditions help us stay connected to her memory and I am thankful that my extended family still gets together to celebrate the holidays.” ~ Amy Campbell, Honoraville

“A few years ago, we started writing down what we’re thankful for on slips of paper, rolling them into crescent rolls and baking them. When everyone has a crescent roll,  we read the notes and guess who wrote what. I am most thankful for my Lord and Savior. I’m thankful that he has given me the life, family and friends that I have. I’m thankful for every lesson I have learned, and that I get to wake up every morning being me.” ~ Savannah Edgar, Highland Home

“Our family’s Thanksgiving tradition centers on eating together—a rarity due to work schedules. A unique dish we enjoy is coconut pie, along with dressing and jerky made from family recipes. One unforgettable memory is the last Thanksgiving our entire family was together before life paths changed and pillars of our family began passing away. I am thankful for my family and for God’s presence in my life.” ~ Ashlan Thomson, Highland Home

“We always meet at my grandmother’s house on Thanksgiving. Everyone looks forward to her collard greens and my Aunt Dorothy Ruth’s pecan pie—a recipe passed down through the generations. It’s a time to celebrate family and the love that connects us.” ~ Adrian Daniels, Brantley.

Whether seated around a table or connecting virtually through Zoom or FaceTime, the essence of Thanksgiving lies in gratitude, love and togetherness.. 

This year, as you carve the turkey, take time to carve out moments for storytelling and reminiscing. Encourage each family member to share their fondest memories or forgotten traditions. Have someone grab a notebook and jot down some of the oral histories shared and conversations held. By doing so, you’ll not only strengthen family bonds but also preserve a legacy of gratitude for generations to come.

From all of us at The Luverne Journal, we wish you and your family a Thanksgiving filled with joy, laughter and lasting memories.