 The episode was directed by Kevin S. Bright and written by Gregory S. Malins . It guest stars Elliott Gould and Christina Pickles as Jack and Judy Geller , with a cameo appearance by Morgan Fairchild as Nora Tyler Bing . The idea was conceived by the writers , who suggested short stories about the " worst Thanksgivings ever " . A flashback approach was incorporated as the producers realized the audience responded well to it , despite concern the episode might be confused for a clip show . 
