Thanksgiving is a season of gratitude, connection, and love—a time to celebrate life’s blessings. But it can also be a time of reflection, especially for families navigating change or those creating new traditions. If this year feels different for you, know you’re not alone. This is my first Thanksgiving after my divorce, and while it’s been a year of challenges and transitions, I’m embracing this holiday as an opportunity to find joy, create new memories, and honor the beauty of resilience.
Last week, a windstorm swept through, knocking out power and forcing my family to hit pause. With no phones, no distractions, and no way to rush through our routines, we were gifted an unexpected moment of rest. We lit candles, played games, told stories, and simply enjoyed being together. What could have felt like an inconvenience became a treasured reminder of the power of slowing down and reconnecting.
It reminded me that Thanksgiving isn’t about how perfectly the day unfolds. It’s about the moments that make us feel grounded, loved, and grateful. For families of children with disabilities, those moments often look different—and that’s okay. Maybe your traditions involve quiet time instead of big gatherings, or maybe you’ve found creative ways to include everyone in a way that feels meaningful and joyful.
This year, I’m focusing on gratitude—not for perfection, but for progress. Yes, this year has been full of change, but it’s also been filled with lessons. I’ve learned to embrace the unknown, find joy in small victories, and let go of what no longer serves me. I’m looking forward to next year with hope—to more moments of laughter, to extending forgiveness, and to bringing light into the world in ways big and small.
For those of you feeling the weight of loss or change this Thanksgiving, take heart in knowing you are not alone. Grief and gratitude can coexist, and there is beauty in allowing yourself to feel it all. Sometimes, the most profound growth happens in those moments of reflection.
If you’re starting new traditions this year, think of it as an opportunity to build something uniquely yours. Whether that’s creating a sensory-friendly celebration for your child, sharing a quiet meal with a loved one, or taking time to simply be present, know that these moments of connection are what truly matter.
This Thanksgiving, I’m choosing to focus on the light—the warmth of family, the laughter we share, and the hope that comes with embracing new possibilities. Let’s take this holiday to not only celebrate the blessings in our lives but also honor the journey that brought us here. And let’s extend compassion to those around us, knowing that even small acts of kindness can make a world of difference.
Here’s to a Thanksgiving filled with love, connection, and gratitude for all the moments—big and small—that remind us of the beauty in our lives.
Happy Thanksgiving, from my family to yours. ❤️
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