Happy Friendsgiving! This month we are looking forward to feasting on stuffing and pumpkin pie as much as the next person, but many of us don’t have family close by. So, we are planning to celebrate, albeit a little early, with our chosen Lavender Friends family. We will potluck all the great food and fun without having to travel.

In December, we will have our annual Holiday Dinner Dance, which brings friends from far and near to eat, dance, and catch up with each other. This tradition goes back almost 20 years and gets everyone in the spirit of the season.

We also have our annual November visit to the Thundering Herd mandarin ranch in Penryn, which is becoming part of our holiday traditions. The rancher, Rich Colwell, has deep roots in the community, a terrific story to tell and always welcomes us like family.

Whether your Thanksgiving traditions include a charity run, the Macy’s Parade, football or hanging out with friends and family, Lavender Friends wishes you a gratitude-filled Thanksgiving. Lavender Friends is a club for LGBTQ residents and their allies.