Thanksgiving
For most everyone Thanksgiving is a time for family, maybe watching football, or going to church. All families have their own traditions. You can be sure, though, that all Thanksgivings will revolve around what seems to be a mountain of food. For those individuals struggling with an eating disorder, that mountain of food can quickly become fraught with anxiety and stress. The young women at Avalon Hills are familiar with this anxiety all too well. This year, instead of avoiding the pain, anxiety and depression, these women have chosen to face their fears. They are in residential treatment. Yes, they are not with their family and friends but they are with a supportive and caring team, dedicated to making this holiday a “family affair”, Avalon style. Thanksgiving started off at a leisurely pace. Everyone slept in a little later. After all, it is a holiday! Telephone calls were made to home while watching the Macy’s Day parade on television and getting dressed. After breakfast, time for pet care and then a walk for D-o-gee.
This is her favorite activity! Time to start getting ready for dinner! The table was set using the best linens and dinnerware. See the little table decorations? They are all handmade. Most meals at Avalon are served family style, this dinner was no different. Dinner began with a toast to health and to hope. Potatoes and turkey and cranberry sauce were shared along with jokes, laughter and stories.
After cleaning up, all gathered in the family room to listen to and sing along with Liz and Lila, two of Avalon’s talented culinary staff. Later Marty, one of the therapists, joined in.
After meals had settled, we took a long walk around a little lake next to our home. It was such a beautiful day!
Later, more calls to family and friends before heading out to see a movie in town. After the movie, most everyone was tired and glad to get back home. Our Thanksgiving was becoming just a pleasant memory for the most part, still with anxiety but no melt downs!
We at Avalon are thankful to share our Thanksgiving Day with such determined young women.
