The sweet smell of pecan pie wafts through the kitchen and into the living room. Turkey, sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, cornbread dressing, and cranberry sauce are piled onto the dining room table. You sit down, with a grumbling stomach and the excitement of a perfect meal, when suddenly, “So, how’s school?” That distanced aunt from your mom’s side questions, followed by your hard-of-hearing grandfather blurting “Any boyfriends?” Next is the inquiry of “Where are you going to college?” from an older cousin.

Are you annoyed by these questions?  Do you just want to sit back and enjoy the most delicious holiday?

You need Friendsgiving. It’s all the same food, with all the best company. Your guest list is your choice, not the obligatory invites to everyone you share a drop of DNA with. The conversation is exactly what you want it to be. There are no slobbery smooches that leave smeared red lipstick across your cheek. There are no awkward silences when you’re left alone in a room with that distant relative that you’re not even sure you’re related to. Friendsgiving is all the best aspects of Thanksgiving, with none of the worst.