Back On Land and Thankful for Everything

I recently went on a beautiful cruise with my husband, brother-in-law, and sister-in-law. We sailed through crystal-clear and brilliantly blue waters, visited exotic ports (Roatan, Costa Maya, Bimini), and enjoyed the ship's fun, fantastic food, and entertainment. It was truly a vacation full of wonderful memories, and I couldn't have been happier to share the experience with my husband and loved ones.

But as much as I enjoyed the cruise, I was excited to return home to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends. There's nothing quite like the warmth and love of being surrounded by those you love and care about, and I am grateful for the opportunity to spend quality time with them over the next few days. I spent many years feeling like a fifth-wheel interloper at other family gatherings.

It's nice to feel at home and not lonely in a crowd of good intentions.

We will have delicious meals together where I have no doubt we will share stories and laughter and reflect on everything we are thankful for. Thanksgiving is a beautiful reminder of the importance of family, community, and gratitude.

As Thanksgiving comes around the corner (tomorrow!), I can't help but think about how lucky I am to have had such an incredible vacation and such wonderful people in my life. It was a perfect ending to a perfect vacation and a great way to kick off the holiday season.

Happy Thanksgiving…