Reston Home Insider: New Thanksgiving traditions

Looking for some new ways to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and family? Read below for some new traditions to incorporate into your family’s routine.

Join the Reston Turkey Trot

Earn your Thanksgiving feast by getting a workout prior to enjoying a plateful of turkey and sides (those are my favorite!). All levels and ages are welcome. There’s a 1-mile fun run/walk and a 5k race which starts at Southlakes High School. Click here to register.

Play a family game

Start the day off with some friendly competition and laughs by playing a game. The favorites with my crew are: Uno, Twister and Left/Center/Right which is a dice game perfect for all ages. The game comes with playing chips but we like to spice it up and play with quarters — it’s fun to see who walks away with the most coins. Available at WalMart or Amazon for about $6.99.

Watch the National Dog Show

Check out all the different breeds that compete to win the coveted spot in this annual Thanksgiving event. This year, the Biewer Terrier is the newest breed to enter the competition which airs at 12 p.m. on NBC Thanksgiving Day following the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you’re looking for laughs, follow this up by watching the movie Best in Show, rated PG-13. If you loved Schitt’s Creek, you’ll love Best in Show.

Have every guest give a toast

A tradition in my family has been for each guest to say what they’re grateful for which always causes the kids to roll their eyes. This year, I’ll have each person stand and give a toast; they can talk about what they’re hopeful for in the upcoming year, state their gratitude, or who knows… let each person add their own personal twist. Should be interesting!

Donate canned goods or an entire meal to Cornerstones in Reston

Cornerstones is seeking canned goods in advance of Thanksgiving Day. You can drop non-perishables off at St. John Neuman Church off Lawyers Road from November 15 to 18 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and November 10 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. If you’d prefer to purchase a complete meal, stop by Giant at Northpoint now through November 12. For $50, Giant will prepare and deliver the box to Cornerstones directly.

Lynn Cooper is a licensed REALTOR in Virginia with McEnearney Associates in McLean. Whether buying or selling, Lynn is 100% committed to her clients before, during and after the transaction. Connect with Lynn at 202-489-7894, [email protected] or @lynncooperrealestate.