Here you will read about how I plan for the busy holiday, thanksgiving by prepping a simple thanksgiving dinner menu! I will tell you how I plan my meal and a few of my simple recipes. I sure do hope you enjoy reading. Please comment if you have any questions!
Thanksgiving is at the top of my list of favorite holidays! I love cooking and family gatherings, but most of all, I love that life slows down and we get a chance to show our gratitude. It’s a time to thank God not only for the meal and family but also for the life He has chosen for us to lead.
A lot goes into preparing for Thanksgiving dinner, especially since dinner for both sides of our families takes place at my house. I start preparing weeks in advance. Honestly, I don’t mind it—it gives my house a reset, and everything gets back in its place. My preparations begin with a cleaning schedule, planning the big projects for weekends and saving the smaller chores for evenings.
As a full-time manager of a company who manages 15 employees across three departments, I’m super busy! That’s why my prep has to start weeks ahead. To stay organized, I write my tasks in a calendar and check them off as I complete them. I do love a good to-do list! I make a to-do list every day whether that be for tasks at work or for tasks at home. I actually started the first weekend of November.
Below is my cleaning schedule for this year:
Weekday Chores (Monday through Friday):
As I mentioned above, I work full time, so my evening hours are very limited. I typically get home around 6 pm. After cooking dinner and cleaning up after that I usually only have about an hour before I like to be in bed so I try to do the bare minimum. I am sure that you know the feeling if you work full time as well.
- Dishes
- Laundry
- Tidying up
Weekend Chores:
November has four weekends before Thanksgiving, so I dedicate my Saturdays to “big jobs”:
- Cleaning the porch- My family likes to spend as much time as possible outdoors. I like to make sure that the porch is ready for visitors. We have quite a big porch, a table that seats 6 and multiple seating areas but it just takes just a good sweep, pickup, and wipe down to get it ready!
- Shampooing carpets- We have carpets in the bedrooms and rugs in the main living area, I like to get them shampooed and freshened up with Gain laundry detergent! It makes the whole house smell amazing!
- Wiping down walls with hot, soapy water- like I said, I like to give my house a good reset and this just makes my whole house feel squeaky clean!
- Deep cleaning the kitchen and dining area- wiping down the cabinets, appliances and table. I like to clean my counter tops off for the holidays to prepare lots of clean space for all of the food. I by no means have a pinterest kitchen! My counter tops are crowded with things we use each day but for the holidays, minimal is best!
On Sundays, I rest and observe the Sabbath, doing my best to avoid housework (though it’s sometimes a challenge). One of the Ten Commandments is to observe the Sabbath so that you can make room to praise and worship the lord. This day is very important to me but like I said, a challenge. We need to be challenged though, nothing good comes easy and there is nothing more important to me than living by His word!
Meal Planning
After cleaning comes meal planning, which is one of the most important steps. This starts with a group chat among family members to figure out who’s bringing what. Simplicity is the goal with a simple thanksgiving dinner menu because it’s so easy to get caught up in the hurry of the holiday season when Thanksgiving is meant to be the exact opposite of that. It’s a time to slow down, give thanks, and enjoy the company of loved ones, not stress over complicated or time-consuming meals. That is why I like to keep simple, tried-and-true recipes for my Thanksgiving meal. While I usually make the same dishes each year for consistency and tradition, the whole menu is enormous!
This simplicity doesn’t just make the meal easier to prepare, it also allows me to focus on the things that truly matter—spending quality time with family and reflecting on all the blessings in our lives. By choosing recipes that are approachable and straightforward, I can enjoy the process of cooking and hosting without feeling overwhelmed. At the end of the day, Thanksgiving isn’t about how elaborate the meal is; it’s about the joy of gathering together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Here’s what I plan to make this year:
- Turkey
- Ham
- Baked mac and cheese
- Baked beans
- Green bean casserole
- Sweet potatoes
Family members pitch in with mashed potatoes, potato salad, deviled eggs, cheese balls, and all the desserts. I know I am forgetting a few things off of that list because there is always so much! The amount of food that everyone brings might seem outrageous at first glance, but it’s a tradition that ensures there’s always something for everyone to enjoy—and plenty to take home afterward. To make the leftover game easier, I’ve made it a habit to save sour cream, butter, and other reusable containers throughout the year. They may not be the fanciest option, but they’re perfect for sending home leftovers for everyone to take home—practical and surprisingly appreciated! It’s one of those little touches that keeps things simple yet thoughtful, ensuring no one leaves empty-handed and thanksgiving continues for days. Plus, it’s a great way to reuse and recycle, adding a bit of sustainability to the holiday. Whether it’s a slice of pie, a scoop of mashed potatoes, or a little bit of everything, these containers have become part of the holiday tradition.
Simple Recipes for Thanksgiving
I aim to keep my recipes simple and approachable because I believe that good food doesn’t have to be complicated to bring people together. The Bible teaches that simplicity brings us closer to God, reminding us to focus on what truly matters—faith, family, and gratitude. This principle guides not only how I cook but also how I strive to live every day. By keeping things simple, we can spend less time stressing in the kitchen and more time cherishing the moments that matter most with the people we love.
Below are some of my favorite recipes, carefully chosen for their ease, flavor, and ability to bring joy to any gathering. Each recipe reflects the idea that cooking can be an act of love and gratitude, whether it’s a comforting dish for your family, a meal to share with friends (friendsgiving), or something special for yourself. These recipes are designed to help you create delicious food without feeling overwhelmed, leaving more time to enjoy the blessings of life. From the main dishes to simple sides, I hope these recipes inspire you to embrace the beauty of simplicity in your kitchen and beyond.
Turkey
Buy a turkey based on how many people you will be feeding and plan to make sure there is enough for everyone without too much going to waste. I typically google “how much turkey do you need for _____ people?” to get a good estimate. I also base how much I will need on what else I am cooking, for example this year I am making a ham and there will be a lot of side dishes so I will take that into consideration. For about 50 people, I will need 35 pounds of turkey and 18 pounds of ham. However, I do not recommend buying a 35 pound turkey, I recommend instead to buy two smaller turkeys, which are much easier to manage and cook evenly. Large turkeys can be tricky because it’s harder to control the internal temperature, increasing the risk of uneven cooking or a dry bird. Smaller turkeys tend to cook more evenly, resulting in moist, flavorful meat that everyone will love.
If your turkey is frozen, you will want to make sure you thaw it out. Read the package directions on this!
Ingredients:
- 1 turkey (size depends on the number of guests)
- 5+ tablespoons butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tablespoon each of salt, pepper, and rosemary
- 1 onion, 1 lemon, and 1 apple, halved
Instructions:
- If frozen, thaw the turkey per package directions.
- Clean your sink and place the turkey inside. Remove giblets, rinse the bird, and pat dry with paper towels.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan.
- Mix seasonings into melted butter, and rub the mixture under the turkey’s skin and over the outside.
- Stuff the turkey cavity with 1 tablespoon butter, the onion, lemon, and apple.
- Roast breast-side down (to keep the breast juicy), flipping it in the last hour of cooking. Follow package directions for cooking times.
- After the turkey is done, allow it to rest and cool. You will want it to cool so that you can start picking the meat off. We do not slice the turkey, we always grab two bowels. One for dark meat and one for white. We then pick the meat off of the turkey. This is much easier than slicing.
Notes:
Turkey stays good in the refrigerator for at least three days, giving you more chances to enjoy it. To keep it fresh, make sure to store the turkey in an airtight container or in aluminum foil to lock in the moisture. Leftover turkey is delicious! One simple option is to use it on a sandwich with mayo the next day—add a slice of cheese, some lettuce, and cranberry sauce for a perfect post time treat. Or a turkey pot pie with a flaky crust, creamy filling, and veggies for a dinner for the whole family. Other great ideas include turkey soups, salads, casseroles, or even tacos. Turkey freezes well so if you don’t think you’ll use it within a few days, portion it out and freeze it for future meals. Whether you keep it classic or try something new, leftover turkey is a delicious way to stretch it a little further.
Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh ham (18 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- ½–1 cup brown sugar
- 1 can of Coke
Instructions:
- Thaw the ham if necessary.
- Place it in a crockpot, rub with mustard, and coat with brown sugar.
- Pour the Coke over the ham, cover with foil, and cook on low for 3–4 hours.
Notes:
Ham is good for about three to four days after it’s cooked, making it a versatile leftover option for meals throughout the week. To keep it fresh and flavorful, be sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil before placing it in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted fridge odors. Leftover ham is incredibly versatile and can be used in so many delicious ways. Try it on a sandwich. It also works wonderfully in omelets, breakfast casseroles, or diced into a soup or salad. Ham pairs well with just about anything. If you don’t plan to use it within a few days, you can even freeze it for later—just make sure it’s well-wrapped and labeled for easy thawing.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 box elbow noodles
- 1 pound Velveeta cheese
- 2+ cups milk
- 1 bag shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook noodles al dente, then drain and return to the pot on low heat.
- Add Velveeta and milk, stirring until creamy. Add extra milk as needed to ensure a creamy texture before baking.
- Pour into a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake for 20 minutes or until golden.
Notes:
This recipe can be refrigerated afterward; however, it never seems to make it that far! In our house, mac and cheese is always the first to disappear, and for good reason. Its creamy, cheesy goodness has a way of bringing everyone back for seconds—and sometimes even thirds. It’s a favorite, loved by both kids and adults making it the star of every gathering. If you do somehow manage to save a portion, it reheats beautifully, but let’s be honest—it’s so good that leftovers are practically unheard of!
Baked Beans
Ingredients:
- 2 (28 oz) cans of Bush’s Original Baked Beans
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)
- 1–2 tablespoons mustard
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ onion, chopped
- 1 small can of green chilies
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a crockpot and mix well.
- Cook on low for 3–4 hours.
Notes:
Can be prepared ahead of time, mix all ingredients together and throw it in the refrigerator then dump in a crockpot.
Leftovers last 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cans green beans
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 can French’s Fried Onions
- Pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix soup, milk, and pepper, then gently fold in green beans.
- Pour into a casserole dish, top with fried onions, and bake for 30 minutes.
Notes:
I would not try to make this one ahead of time, as it’s a super simple recipe that doesn’t require much preparation in advance. The beauty of this dish lies in its ease making it perfect for when you’re short on time. Since it comes together quickly, you can focus on other elements of your meal. By making it right before serving, you’ll ensure the flavors are fresh and everything tastes just as it should. Plus, keeping things simple means less cleanup!
Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup each of sugar and brown sugar
- 3 eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 bag mini marshmallows
- Cinnamon to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Combine sweet potatoes, butter, sugars, eggs, and milk.
- Spread into a greased casserole dish, top with marshmallows, and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Bake until marshmallows are golden.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed reading this simple thanksgiving dinner menu and plans to help your Thanksgiving routine, allowing you to focus on the things that matter most. Remember, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and reflection—a moment to gather with loved ones and celebrate the blessings in our lives. It’s meant for God, family, and counting those blessings, not for stressing over complicated recipes or feeling overwhelmed by expectations. Simplicity is key, mirroring the way Jesus taught us to live. When we embrace simplicity, we free ourselves to fully experience the joy of sharing meals, laughter, and good conversations around the table. So, let go of the pressure to create perfection and instead cherish the beauty of being present with the people who matter most. Focus on creating memories that last, celebrating traditions that bring comfort, and giving thanks for the grace and goodness that fills our lives each day.
Here you will read about how I plan for the busy holiday, thanksgiving by prepping a simple thanksgiving dinner menu! I will tell you how I plan my meal and a few of my simple recipes. I sure do hope you enjoy reading. Please comment if you have any questions!
Thanksgiving is at the top of my list of favorite holidays! I love cooking and family gatherings, but most of all, I love that life slows down and we get a chance to show our gratitude. It’s a time to thank God not only for the meal and family but also for the life He has chosen for us to lead.
A lot goes into preparing for Thanksgiving dinner, especially since dinner for both sides of our families takes place at my house. I start preparing weeks in advance. Honestly, I don’t mind it—it gives my house a reset, and everything gets back in its place. My preparations begin with a cleaning schedule, planning the big projects for weekends and saving the smaller chores for evenings.
As a full-time manager of a company who manages 15 employees across three departments, I’m super busy! That’s why my prep has to start weeks ahead. To stay organized, I write my tasks in a calendar and check them off as I complete them. I do love a good to-do list! I make a to-do list every day whether that be for tasks at work or for tasks at home. I actually started the first weekend of November.
Below is my cleaning schedule for this year:
Weekday Chores (Monday through Friday):
As I mentioned above, I work full time, so my evening hours are very limited. I typically get home around 6 pm. After cooking dinner and cleaning up after that I usually only have about an hour before I like to be in bed so I try to do the bare minimum. I am sure that you know the feeling if you work full time as well.
- Dishes
- Laundry
- Tidying up
Weekend Chores:
November has four weekends before Thanksgiving, so I dedicate my Saturdays to “big jobs”:
- Cleaning the porch- My family likes to spend as much time as possible outdoors. I like to make sure that the porch is ready for visitors. We have quite a big porch, a table that seats 6 and multiple seating areas but it just takes just a good sweep, pickup, and wipe down to get it ready!
- Shampooing carpets- We have carpets in the bedrooms and rugs in the main living area, I like to get them shampooed and freshened up with Gain laundry detergent! It makes the whole house smell amazing!
- Wiping down walls with hot, soapy water- like I said, I like to give my house a good reset and this just makes my whole house feel squeaky clean!
- Deep cleaning the kitchen and dining area- wiping down the cabinets, appliances and table. I like to clean my counter tops off for the holidays to prepare lots of clean space for all of the food. I by no means have a pinterest kitchen! My counter tops are crowded with things we use each day but for the holidays, minimal is best!
On Sundays, I rest and observe the Sabbath, doing my best to avoid housework (though it’s sometimes a challenge). One of the Ten Commandments is to observe the Sabbath so that you can make room to praise and worship the lord. This day is very important to me but like I said, a challenge. We need to be challenged though, nothing good comes easy and there is nothing more important to me than living by His word!
Meal Planning
After cleaning comes meal planning, which is one of the most important steps. This starts with a group chat among family members to figure out who’s bringing what. Simplicity is the goal with a simple thanksgiving dinner menu because it’s so easy to get caught up in the hurry of the holiday season when Thanksgiving is meant to be the exact opposite of that. It’s a time to slow down, give thanks, and enjoy the company of loved ones, not stress over complicated or time-consuming meals. That is why I like to keep simple, tried-and-true recipes for my Thanksgiving meal. While I usually make the same dishes each year for consistency and tradition, the whole menu is enormous!
This simplicity doesn’t just make the meal easier to prepare, it also allows me to focus on the things that truly matter—spending quality time with family and reflecting on all the blessings in our lives. By choosing recipes that are approachable and straightforward, I can enjoy the process of cooking and hosting without feeling overwhelmed. At the end of the day, Thanksgiving isn’t about how elaborate the meal is; it’s about the joy of gathering together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Here’s what I plan to make this year:
- Turkey
- Ham
- Baked mac and cheese
- Baked beans
- Green bean casserole
- Sweet potatoes
Family members pitch in with mashed potatoes, potato salad, deviled eggs, cheese balls, and all the desserts. I know I am forgetting a few things off of that list because there is always so much! The amount of food that everyone brings might seem outrageous at first glance, but it’s a tradition that ensures there’s always something for everyone to enjoy—and plenty to take home afterward. To make the leftover game easier, I’ve made it a habit to save sour cream, butter, and other reusable containers throughout the year. They may not be the fanciest option, but they’re perfect for sending home leftovers for everyone to take home—practical and surprisingly appreciated! It’s one of those little touches that keeps things simple yet thoughtful, ensuring no one leaves empty-handed and thanksgiving continues for days. Plus, it’s a great way to reuse and recycle, adding a bit of sustainability to the holiday. Whether it’s a slice of pie, a scoop of mashed potatoes, or a little bit of everything, these containers have become part of the holiday tradition.
Simple Recipes for Thanksgiving
I aim to keep my recipes simple and approachable because I believe that good food doesn’t have to be complicated to bring people together. The Bible teaches that simplicity brings us closer to God, reminding us to focus on what truly matters—faith, family, and gratitude. This principle guides not only how I cook but also how I strive to live every day. By keeping things simple, we can spend less time stressing in the kitchen and more time cherishing the moments that matter most with the people we love.
Below are some of my favorite recipes, carefully chosen for their ease, flavor, and ability to bring joy to any gathering. Each recipe reflects the idea that cooking can be an act of love and gratitude, whether it’s a comforting dish for your family, a meal to share with friends (friendsgiving), or something special for yourself. These recipes are designed to help you create delicious food without feeling overwhelmed, leaving more time to enjoy the blessings of life. From the main dishes to simple sides, I hope these recipes inspire you to embrace the beauty of simplicity in your kitchen and beyond.
Turkey
Buy a turkey based on how many people you will be feeding and plan to make sure there is enough for everyone without too much going to waste. I typically google “how much turkey do you need for _____ people?” to get a good estimate. I also base how much I will need on what else I am cooking, for example this year I am making a ham and there will be a lot of side dishes so I will take that into consideration. For about 50 people, I will need 35 pounds of turkey and 18 pounds of ham. However, I do not recommend buying a 35 pound turkey, I recommend instead to buy two smaller turkeys, which are much easier to manage and cook evenly. Large turkeys can be tricky because it’s harder to control the internal temperature, increasing the risk of uneven cooking or a dry bird. Smaller turkeys tend to cook more evenly, resulting in moist, flavorful meat that everyone will love.
If your turkey is frozen, you will want to make sure you thaw it out. Read the package directions on this!
Ingredients:
- 1 turkey (size depends on the number of guests)
- 5+ tablespoons butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tablespoon each of salt, pepper, and rosemary
- 1 onion, 1 lemon, and 1 apple, halved
Instructions:
- If frozen, thaw the turkey per package directions.
- Clean your sink and place the turkey inside. Remove giblets, rinse the bird, and pat dry with paper towels.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan.
- Mix seasonings into melted butter, and rub the mixture under the turkey’s skin and over the outside.
- Stuff the turkey cavity with 1 tablespoon butter, the onion, lemon, and apple.
- Roast breast-side down (to keep the breast juicy), flipping it in the last hour of cooking. Follow package directions for cooking times.
- After the turkey is done, allow it to rest and cool. You will want it to cool so that you can start picking the meat off. We do not slice the turkey, we always grab two bowels. One for dark meat and one for white. We then pick the meat off of the turkey. This is much easier than slicing.
Notes:
Turkey stays good in the refrigerator for at least three days, giving you more chances to enjoy it. To keep it fresh, make sure to store the turkey in an airtight container or in aluminum foil to lock in the moisture. Leftover turkey is delicious! One simple option is to use it on a sandwich with mayo the next day—add a slice of cheese, some lettuce, and cranberry sauce for a perfect post time treat. Or a turkey pot pie with a flaky crust, creamy filling, and veggies for a dinner for the whole family. Other great ideas include turkey soups, salads, casseroles, or even tacos. Turkey freezes well so if you don’t think you’ll use it within a few days, portion it out and freeze it for future meals. Whether you keep it classic or try something new, leftover turkey is a delicious way to stretch it a little further.
Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh ham (18 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- ½–1 cup brown sugar
- 1 can of Coke
Instructions:
- Thaw the ham if necessary.
- Place it in a crockpot, rub with mustard, and coat with brown sugar.
- Pour the Coke over the ham, cover with foil, and cook on low for 3–4 hours.
Notes:
Ham is good for about three to four days after it’s cooked, making it a versatile leftover option for meals throughout the week. To keep it fresh and flavorful, be sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil before placing it in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted fridge odors. Leftover ham is incredibly versatile and can be used in so many delicious ways. Try it on a sandwich. It also works wonderfully in omelets, breakfast casseroles, or diced into a soup or salad. Ham pairs well with just about anything. If you don’t plan to use it within a few days, you can even freeze it for later—just make sure it’s well-wrapped and labeled for easy thawing.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 box elbow noodles
- 1 pound Velveeta cheese
- 2+ cups milk
- 1 bag shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook noodles al dente, then drain and return to the pot on low heat.
- Add Velveeta and milk, stirring until creamy. Add extra milk as needed to ensure a creamy texture before baking.
- Pour into a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake for 20 minutes or until golden.
Notes:
This recipe can be refrigerated afterward; however, it never seems to make it that far! In our house, mac and cheese is always the first to disappear, and for good reason. Its creamy, cheesy goodness has a way of bringing everyone back for seconds—and sometimes even thirds. It’s a favorite, loved by both kids and adults making it the star of every gathering. If you do somehow manage to save a portion, it reheats beautifully, but let’s be honest—it’s so good that leftovers are practically unheard of!
Baked Beans
Ingredients:
- 2 (28 oz) cans of Bush’s Original Baked Beans
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)
- 1–2 tablespoons mustard
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ onion, chopped
- 1 small can of green chilies
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a crockpot and mix well.
- Cook on low for 3–4 hours.
Notes:
Can be prepared ahead of time, mix all ingredients together and throw it in the refrigerator then dump in a crockpot.
Leftovers last 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cans green beans
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 can French’s Fried Onions
- Pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix soup, milk, and pepper, then gently fold in green beans.
- Pour into a casserole dish, top with fried onions, and bake for 30 minutes.
Notes:
I would not try to make this one ahead of time, as it’s a super simple recipe that doesn’t require much preparation in advance. The beauty of this dish lies in its ease making it perfect for when you’re short on time. Since it comes together quickly, you can focus on other elements of your meal. By making it right before serving, you’ll ensure the flavors are fresh and everything tastes just as it should. Plus, keeping things simple means less cleanup!
Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup each of sugar and brown sugar
- 3 eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 bag mini marshmallows
- Cinnamon to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Combine sweet potatoes, butter, sugars, eggs, and milk.
- Spread into a greased casserole dish, top with marshmallows, and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Bake until marshmallows are golden.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed reading this simple thanksgiving dinner menu and plans to help your Thanksgiving routine, allowing you to focus on the things that matter most. Remember, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and reflection—a moment to gather with loved ones and celebrate the blessings in our lives. It’s meant for God, family, and counting those blessings, not for stressing over complicated recipes or feeling overwhelmed by expectations. Simplicity is key, mirroring the way Jesus taught us to live. When we embrace simplicity, we free ourselves to fully experience the joy of sharing meals, laughter, and good conversations around the table. So, let go of the pressure to create perfection and instead cherish the beauty of being present with the people who matter most. Focus on creating memories that last, celebrating traditions that bring comfort, and giving thanks for the grace and goodness that fills our lives each day.