Smoke is still lingering in the air from the Fourth of July fireworks when school supplies and Halloween decorations are brought out from retail storage rooms. Then like magic on the day after Halloween, Christmas trees sprout up like mini forests in stores and malls start to play a list of holiday tunes that studies have shown to inspire sales. We haven’t finished eating the leftover trick-or-treat candy when we find ourselves at the brink of the holiday season. At that point, all the hoopla and drama have begun and we realize there’s no way out; we’re in it for the long haul. There are high expectations to live up to and so much to do that sometimes the whole thing seems overwhelming. But just when it looks like commercialization is completely out of control, along comes Thanksgiving — the no hype holiday.

Like any other holiday, you have the option to make Thanksgiving as complicated or simple as you want it to be. Basically, the only requirements are a good appetite and a dish to share. Choosing to wear comfortable clothes (preferably stretchy) is advisable but totally up to you.The only gift exchanged is sharing a meal with the people that you love. What could make for a better day? I guess some would say football. Even if you’re not a sports fan, you need to realize that football isn’t so bad. If everyone else is occupied, you are free to do whatever it is that you enjoy. Maybe it’s getting ready for … okay, I can mention it — Black Friday.

Thanksgiving has always been the perfect time to reflect on all the people and things that make our lives great. Remember to let go of any drama and find the patience to see the blessings in spending time with your family and friends.

                      I’m excited this year that I finally published my book Ryley—A Christmas Romance. It would be a fun stocking stuffer! If you have read it, I would be forever thankful if you placed a review. Here’s where to get the book and/or place a review: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1734084200