Happy Thanksgiving! Oddly enough, my favorite thing about this day is inhaling all of the great smells. For me, certain smells trigger joyful memories, and apparently, there is interesting scientific proof of it.

 I love the scent of winter arriving. By Thanksgiving Day it feels like it’s on its way. The air in northeastern Ohio at the end of November usually develops a cold bite. You can smell the earthiness of the leaves falling from the soon-to-be barren trees. When I breathe in the chilly air I notice a dark, woody, chimney smoke, and pine needle aroma. You can sense that snow will be coming soon.

Traditionally my husband uses an outside smoker to cook our turkey. The gamey and smokey scent that wafts through the air is incredible and lasts for hours. There are many spices rubbed on the bird. Oregano, paprika, pepper, and seasoned wood are so prevalent. Even if you’re not hungry, you will be if you happen to stop by our home on Thanksgiving Day.

Obviously, the star of Thanksgiving Day is the meal. My mother and father-in-law host dinner and the family shares the responsibility of bringing different dishes to the table. When you walk in their door and close your eyes, you can distinctly smell their amazing wedding soup simmering in a huge pot on the stove. The piping hot broth smells so cozy with escarole, meatballs, and seasoned crotons just waiting to be ladled into bowls. To me, that aroma signifies the kick-off to the holiday season.

There is plenty to celebrate on Thanksgiving Day but I enjoy it most through my sense of smell. Don’t get me wrong, I will certainly consume my fair share of calories and will enjoy every bite!

 Besides the obvious notion of being with family and all the delicious food, what is your favorite part of the day? Please share! Cheers to you and those joining you at the table this year.