5 Creative Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Eagle Rock

Thanksgiving is one of those holidays during which we all risk focusing on the celebration and not quite enough on expressing our gratitude for all that we have, whether it be good health, a job, family, friends—or the good fortune of living in a neighborhood such as Eagle Rock, whose rich history of volunteerism is being kept alive by the remarkable deeds of many Eagle Rockers.

Of all the way to celebrate Thanksgiving, none is probably better than to take a moment to give back to the neighborhood. Here are four simple, suggested ways:

1. Take a walk in the neighborhood—and perform one good deed while on your way, whether it's picking up trash, reporting graffiti or offering a meal to someone needy.

2. Plant a tree.

3. Support a local business. Don't just patronize it—express your gratitude to the proprietor for sticking it out in these tough economic times. Bring a card, a single flower, a cheery smile—or all of the above.

4. Plan a neighborhood picnic or football game at a local park such as the Eagle Rock Recreation Center.

5. Share the story of your Thanksgiving deed with your family or friends over dinner and ask them to share their stories of the day.

Happy Thanksgiving!