For many students, Thanksgiving break is a chance to rest, catch up on schoolwork, and reconnect with loved ones. For Yoselin Vasquez Gonzalez (11), this year’s break became a meaningful reminder of the importance of family, tradition, and appreciating moments that often go unnoticed. Gonzalez’s experiences over the holiday highlight the connection and the comfort of returning to familiar routines.
Gonzalez began her break by reuniting with both family members and close friends. Gonzalez described this year’s gathering as meaningful, because it’s been awhile since Gonzalez’s family has celebrated together. For Gonzalez, having everyone in the same place again feels like something to truly cherish and remember.
“I celebrated thanksgiving with my family and close friends. It was a very special moment since the last time we celebrated thanksgiving together as a family was 2 years ago,” Gonzalez said.
Food is one of the traditions that makes Thanksgiving memorable for many families, and for Gonzalez her grandmother’s dish stands out more than anyone’s. Gonzalez’s grandmother’s cheesecake and flan have been part of the family’s celebration for years, creating and carrying memories of their childhood they have once celebrated. For Gonzalez, the taste brings her back to the past reminding Gonzalez of how fast time comes and goes.
“My favorite dish at Thanksgiving dinner would have to be my grandmother’s homemade cheesecake and flan. Every single time she makes it, it brings back memories of whenever me and my cousins were little since she would always make them for our birthdays,” Gonzalez said.
Another important part of Gonzalez family’s celebration is a tradition that takes place once the sun sets. After Gonzalez’s grandmother prepares hot chocolate, the family gathers outside around a warm bonfire,and share stories and reflect on the year.
“A family tradition we have is when my grandmother makes hot chocolate we always go outside to make a bonfire and have deep talks,” Gonzalez said.
Much of Gonzalez’s break was spent with her cousin. Gonzalez describes her cousin as a lifelong companion who understands her better than most people. The two took pictures, caught up on life, and enjoyed the comfort of being around each other.
“I spent time with my cousin, Kamyla Gonzalez. We took pictures and talked about things going on in our lives. I always like to spend Thanksgiving with her because I grew up with her and we have always been so close,” Gonzalez said.
Balancing relaxation with schoolwork can be challenging, but Gonzalez found a routine that helped her stay productive without missing out on the fun.
“I would have to say that my way of balancing my relaxing time and studying is all balanced by me studying early in the morning as soon as I wake up so I am able to finish studying early and not have to worry about it whenever I do have something to do later that day,” Gonzalez said.
During the break, Gonzalez also took time to reflect on the meaning of being present. Gonzalez realized the importance of not isolating herself and instead choosing to spend time with the people who matter most.
“During my thanksgiving break I have learned that you should never take moments for granted when you are surrounded by loved ones and you are basically in your room all day without being with them you are not able to make memories with them and appreciate the moment for what it is. I believe you should be able to really see what is around you and make yourself happy with the moments shared with loved ones,” Gonzalez said.
Of course, no break would be complete without a favorite movie. For Gonzalez, rewatching ‘The Notebook’ brought back familiar emotions and a sense of comfort.
“I was able to watch ‘The Notebook’ again and I really love that movie. It makes me cry my eyes out every time. It’s a very sweet and deep movie,” Gonzalez said.
When the break came to an end, Gonzalez felt grateful most of all for the chance to be surrounded by family once again.
“What I was most grateful for this thanksgiving was having all my family members together and sharing the special moments we had,” Gonzalez said.
