Happy Thanksgiving!

As the leaves turn golden and the air cools, Thanksgiving approaches—a time to gather with loved ones, feast on delicious food, and reflect on the blessings in our lives. This holiday is a beautiful reminder to pause and appreciate the moments, big and small, that fill our hearts with gratitude.

Thanksgiving is often celebrated with family traditions, whether it’s indulging in a turkey dinner, watching football, or volunteering in the community. However, in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the importance of gratitude outside of this special occasion. While Thanksgiving is traditionally the day earmarked for giving thanks, I believe daily gratitude is the pivotal to living an abundant life.

To instil this in our family, we transformed an entire kitchen wall into a gratitude board. The board is simple, chalk paint on our kitchen wall, framed with trim. We keep a stock of markers in a basket on the wall, and add to it often, even inviting guests to add their blessings. It has become a cherished ritual, allowing us to connect and share our feelings in a tangible way.

While pivotal events through the year are included, it's often the little things we often take for granted that are added.

Here are a few things we're thankful for this year:

• Early morning coffee

• Sunshine

• A new niece and cousin

• A warm vacation

• Loud living rooms

• Catalpa trees

• Cookies

• Smiles

The board is simple, chalk paint on our kitchen wall, framed with trim. We keep a stock of markers in a basket on the wall, and add to it often, even inviting guests to add their blessings. It has become a cherished ritual, allowing us to connect and share our feelings in a tangible way.

At first, we started this practice simply to add a bit of joy to our week. However, it has evolved into something much deeper. The grateful board has become a space for us to express not only our gratitude but also our challenges. It reminds us that even on tough days, there is something to appreciate, whether it’s a friend who reached out or a moment of quiet reflection.

What started as a simple board in our home has transformed into a visual representation of our family’s journey. It serves as a reminder of our shared experiences, triumphs, and the love that binds us together.

It’s a beautiful way to look back at all the moments we’ve captured, reminding us of the blessings we might otherwise forget.

In a world that often feels overwhelming, this practice of gratitude helps us regain perspective. It encourages us to celebrate the good, recognize our growth, and support one another through life’s ups and downs.

This Thanksgiving, as we gather around the table, we’ll not only give thanks for the food and fellowship but also for the simple act of gratitude that has enriched our lives.

As you prepare for your own Thanksgiving celebrations, consider how you can incorporate gratitude into your daily life. Whether it’s through a Grateful Board, a gratitude journal, or simply taking a moment each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for, embracing gratitude can bring joy and connection to your family.

Let’s carry the spirit of Thanksgiving beyond just one day and into the heart of our everyday lives. After all, it’s the little things that often hold the most significance.

Happy Thanksgiving!