Gratitude, Good Food, and Good Books

 A Thanksgiving weekend of family meals, long walks, and reaching 86 books this year

Bryan and I headed out for a walk after he returned from his sister’s Thanksgiving gathering, settling into a steady 30‑minute pace that carried us just under 2 km. The air was crisp with a light breeze, the kind of weather that makes movement feel effortless. I’ve always loved these cooler temperatures—my body doesn’t have to work as hard, and the transition from “easy mode” into a gentle warm‑up felt natural. Carrying 30 pounds with me added that extra layer of challenge, but it blended seamlessly into the rhythm of the walk.

We paused at a park bench along the way, taking a moment to sit together before snapping a photo. That small break reminded me how these walks are as much about connection as they are about distance or weight carried. The combination of fresh air, conversation, and the grounding presence of the season made the outing feel restorative. It wasn’t just a walk—it was a reminder of how simple rituals can anchor a day and leave me feeling both lighter and stronger.

After the walk we sit drinking raspberry tea out front with the dog 🐕 

Enjoying the camaraderie 

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! After a couple of days filled with turkey, ham, and family time, Kim surprised me with a simple but perfect plate of eggs tonight. It was the kind of small gesture that wraps up a holiday weekend with comfort. Between meals and gatherings, I still managed to keep up with the dog’s walks and even fit in some work, which gave the days a nice balance of celebration and routine. The cooler air made those walks especially refreshing, a reminder that even during busy weekends, movement keeps me grounded.

On top of that, I carved out time for one of my favorite rituals—listening to audiobooks. I got through three this weekend and even finished a few I’d been working on, bringing my total close to 86 books for the year. That number feels like its own kind of celebration, a steady accumulation of stories and ideas that have carried me through the seasons. All in all, it was a weekend of gratitude, good food, family, and progress—exactly the kind of mix that makes me feel both content and motivated for what’s ahead.