As the calendar inches closer to Thanksgiving, I can already feel that familiar mix of excitement and pressure building inside me. I love the holiday…the food, the coziness, the laughter floating through the house, the way my family fills a room with stories and warmth. However, I’ve also learned that if I’m not mindful, the day can become overwhelming fast. So, I chose to prepare not just the menu, not just the house, but my mind and heart for the holiday ahead as well.

I think what gratitude has taught me most is presence. Life moves fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in what’s next. But gratitude reminds me to pause, to notice what’s already here, to soak it in before it slips away.