Pass the stuffing, pour on some gravy and keep the judgment coming. For freshman Emily Reynoso, Thanksgiving isn’t fun without the constant bicker from loved ones around the table. 

 “It’s like dinner and a show,” said the Criminal Justice major.

Chowing down and stirring up drama between her friends and family is what Reynoso looks forward.

“My family doesn’t operate without constant teasing,” she said. “I already know there will be some wrestling going on with my two uncles … my mom will come yelling with a broom to split them up.” 

Arguments are common – but not angry.

“It’s how we show our love for each other,” said Gonzalez.

Everyone in the family is loud and outspoken but the freshman considers herself to be one of the calmer members.

“The first time my friends came over, they didn’t expect my family to be so much, but it was a lot of fun…they feel apart of the family now,” she said.

Laughing is mandatory and keeping comments to yourself is unheard of.  

“I love to laugh at the ridiculous comments my uncles make…when they get out of hand my grandma will get loud and tell them to knock it off,” said Gonzalez. 

This Thanksgiving, she is anticipating a new reason for argument.

“My brother always rates the food, yet never helps cook anything,” Gonzalez said. “This year he might fist fight because I’ll be making a few desserts… if he doesn’t like it, I know my grandma will.”