Favorite sides … For some people Thanksgiving isn’t about the turkey – it’s all about the sides. And when it comes to favorites, one reigns supreme – mashed potatoes. 46% of people surveyed chose mashed potatoes as their favorite side, narrowly beating out stuffing at 43%. Sweet potatoes (39%) and cranberry sauce (37%) were also favorites.
Looking for love over the holidays? Start baking some pumpkin pies. A study found that the smell of pumpkin pie is a turn-on for men.
How many calories do we eat on Thanksgiving? According to the Calorie Control Council, the average American may consume more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on Thanksgiving day. What would it take to burn off those calories? 15 hours of cycling, a 10.3-hour hike, or a 28-mile run.
Did you know … ? The first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade had live animals – not balloons. When the parade began in 1924, live animals were paraded through the streets of New York. The animals, including elephants and tigers, came from the Central Park Zoo. The balloons didn't arrive until 1927. Felix the Cat was the very first balloon.
Thanksgiving … with the in-laws. Women's Health asked its readers about spending the holidays with their in-laws.
Holidays with the in-laws means ...
• "Laughter and good times" -- 48%
• "Holding my tongue till it's numb" -- 23%
• "Compromise after compromise" -- 17%
• "Constant wine refills" -- 12%