As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on gratitude in a way that feels more profound and more resonant this year. It's a season to gather, to cherish, and to give thanks—but it's also a time that reminds us of all the changes, challenges, and beauty that life brings. I think of my mother, a woman whose resilience, creativity, and warmth shaped so much of who I am today. She taught me the art of gratitude, not just through words, but through her actions, her joy in simple moments, and her unwavering support.

This year has been one of transition, of learning to navigate life without her daily presence. It’s a strange and tender experience to feel both a sense of loss and a well of gratitude at the same time. Yet, if there’s one thing my mother taught me, it’s to hold space for both. She would remind me that life’s beauty often lies in its complexity and that gratitude can coexist with grief, bringing light even in challenging times.

As I reflect on this past year, I am incredibly grateful for my daughters. They have shown up for me and for my mother with a devotion that I can only describe as remarkable. Their kindness, selflessness, and unwavering support during my mother’s final days filled me with pride and a profound sense of gratitude. Watching them care for her, with such grace and love, was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever witnessed. They remind me every day of the power of family and the legacy of love that my mother left us.

So, as I sit down to write my Thanksgiving reflections, here are a few things I'm especially grateful for this year: