A Time of Thanks

Thanksgiving has always been a holiday I look forward to, not just because of the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, but because it’s also my birthday. Each year, I get to celebrate with a delicious meal surrounded by the people I love most. And let’s be honest, it’s one of the rare times I don’t have dish duty. Honestly, who's going to ask the birthday girl to clean up?

But beyond the personal celebration, Thanksgiving serves as a reminder to pause and reflect on the blessings we've been given throughout the year. This past year has been filled with new beginnings, some challenges, and so much to be thankful for. I’m deeply grateful for the love and health of my family, and for the many ways we've been blessed, whether big or small, these moments remind me of how fortunate we truly are.

Thanksgiving offers a special opportunity to teach my children the value of giving back and practicing gratitude. As parents, we naturally lead by example. Whether we engage in conversations about gratitude during dinner, where we each share three things we’re thankful for, or encourage acts of kindness, by practicing them ourselves daily, we can show them how small acts of kindness and gratitude go hand in hand. Simple actions, like helping around the house without being asked, can make a big difference. I also make it a point to donate to our local food bank, either by dropping off canned goods or purchasing a pre-made donation bag at the grocery store. By intertwining these lessons of gratitude and generosity into their everyday lives, we show our children that true wealth is found in giving and appreciating what we already have.

At penn + chio KIDS, giving back is part of who we are. We hope to inspire others to reflect on their blessings and spread kindness in whatever way they can. From our family to yours, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving filled with love, gratitude, and the warmth of giving.

XO,
Sandra