Gobble. Giggle. Gratitude.

Thanksgiving has a magical way of turning back the clock. Every year, without fail, I’m transported straight into childhood the moment the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade comes on:  the music, the energy, the crowd cheering,  it all fills the room in the best way. And yes, I’m still completely mesmerized by the giant balloons. My forever favorite? Sesame Street, of course. Some things never grow old…

Once the parade fades, the kitchen takes center stage. It’s loud, crowded, warm, and overflowing with laughter.  There’s the buttery smell of the turkey, the unmistakable comfort of sage drifting from the dressing, and then there’s my personal queen of Thanksgiving dishes: sweet potato casserole- creamy, warm, kissed with vanilla, and crowned with a crunchy brown-sugar-buttery pecan topping… basically dessert wearing a side-dish disguise, scrumptious!

After the family is thoroughly stuffed with turkey and deliciousness, it’s officially time for two things: Dallas Cowboys football and naps!

I love the food and the traditions, But if I’m honest, Thanksgiving is about more than food and football. Thanksgiving is the moment each year that nudges me to pause and remember what matters. I have so much to be grateful for: my incredibly supportive family, friends that show up, for laughter, and all the simple moments in life.

Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday. It’s a feeling: warm, familiar, a little chaotic, and a whole bunch of love.

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