Thanksgiving

     Happy Thanksgiving all the way from London! This season I will not be partaking in my traditional Thanksgiving events back in the States. Instead, I will be reflecting on gratitude, and how many people have helped me grow, and have supported me and my goals. The first person is easy, that would be my mother. She always allows me to make choices and learn from them, but when things get hard or maybe it wasn't the greatest choice instead of saying I told you so, she helps me brush off the rough patch and try again. This usually consists of a coffee and talking till the late morning, or the occasional me with a glass of wine or two, venting while sitting on the kitchen countertop. She never makes me feel like I'm crazy, or wrong. Instead, she allows me to ramble, and finally, things seem to become clearer. Then of course my brother who always can manage to put a smile on my face. My two lovely baby boys; Corona and Oakley. I can't wait to come home for my puppy cuddles. 

    Then of course there are my friends who I consider family. Emily who has protected me, put my needs before her own, and knows when I need her. Madi who allows me to be my crazy authentic self with no apologies, and is always up for a drink or two. Cassie who I know will answer my calls and allow me to ramble on and on. Sophie became a recent addition to my life, but when we met I knew we would definitely have more than a friendship. To the Foodsmith family who make my shifts something I look forward to. Jen, Tanya, and Zac, it's definitely time for a night out. To Zach who initiates movie dates :) which I think is time for a movie once I'm back. I thank anyone who has been in my presence and put a smile on my face. 

    To my aunts and uncles and cousins. Thank you for being my family!

Thanksgiving should be about thanks and gratitude. So be helpful, smile, and most importantly be kind. To the person who hosts Thanksgiving, a 1000 thank yous. I know how hard it can be, from cleaning to prepping food to all the things in between. We appreciate you for taking the reins and creating the space for a Thanksgiving meal to share. 

What's your favorite part of Thanksgiving? 

Mine was always the mashed cheesy potatoes and cranberry sauce! The cousins reunited and just in the presence of holiday cheer. The older we get I think we lose that joy, we forget the meaning behind the holidays. Sometimes it's more stressful and anxiety-ridden but that's due to the overthinking of one's own mindset. Instead, close your eyes and try to capture that moment from your youth, when everything was magical and special. Don't overthink, just smile and be thankful you have a day to share with your family.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone 

-Alyssa