NFLRUSH continued its interview with Gary Baxter, defensive back for the Cleveland Browns. He told us all about his Thanksgiving plans, upcoming birthday and family traditions. Here's what he said:
NFLRUSH: Gary, let's talk about some things off the field. Are you doing anything special for Thanksgiving? Family? Friends?
GARY: I usually have some family members visit me in Cleveland during Thanksgiving but this year I'm going home (to Texas) and I'll be with the whole family for the holiday!
NFLRUSH: Does your family have any Thanksgiving traditions that you all still keep?
GARY: Well, my birthday is on Thanksgiving Day, so I think there's going to be a cake! My family always has a huge meal and we watch football and we always go out to a movie, the whole family.
NFLRUSH: Who decides what movie you see?
GARY: We pick out a few the week before and then we vote on which one we should see!
NFLRUSH: Sounds fair. Any other family traditions?
GARY: Yeah, we play Dominos. That is definitely a family tradition! And it's competitive.
NFLRUSH: You play with Willie (McGinest, Browns linebacker) a lot, right?
GARY: Yup, and I've been losing lately. But, playing with Willie is just practice for when I'm home with my family. We all love Dominos.
NFLRUSH: So, Gary, do you have any advice for kids about eating healthy during Thanksgiving?
GARY: Well, it's tough because there's so much good stuff all around. Try to stay away from sweets. I have a hard time not cheating because it's my birthday. I eat some cake, but I know I'll be back to working out everyday a couple of days after that.
NFLRUSH: Do you do anything special in the community for Thanksgiving, Gary?
GARY: Yes, I do. Every year I buy about 300 to 400 turkeys and give them away to families that can't afford them or that are in need. I'll be doing it in Cleveland this year.
NFLRUSH: That's a really great thing you do.
GARY: Well, I don't really like to publicize it, but I like helping people.
NFLRUSH: Well, Gary, do you have any advice for kids about what you've learned, while being injured and working your way back to playing every week?
GARY: I would just say, be positive. You have to do your best with the cards you're dealt, but if you work hard, you really can do your best. My new motto is: be persistent and consistent! That's what I've been saying - be persistent and consistent!
NFLRUSH: That's really good advice! Well, Gary, have a great Thanksgiving with your family and Happy Birthday! Thanks for taking the time to talk to NFLRUSH.
GARY: Thank you! Happy Thanksgiving. Talk to you soon!
