By Sarah McKinney
I have a confession to make: Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. There’s just something about the season of giving thanks that resonates so deeply with me. It’s not just a season or a holiday—it’s a state of mind and a heart posture I cherish every autumn.
When it comes to the actual day, I’m a traditional Thanksgiving purist at heart. I’m talking turkey, cornbread dressing, green bean casserole, sweet potato something, and pecan pie—PURIST. You can find me somewhere between the couch and the kitchen, chopping, taste-testing, and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with coffee in hand. That’s my happy place, and I look forward to it all year long!
As the baby of the family, my workload is admittedly light, and my parents still make most of the magic happen—as they have for so many years. Every year, the thought of having to do it without them weighs a little heavier as I see us all aging (not gonna cry—let’s keep it moving). Slowly, I’m learning the ropes and memorizing recipes that have never—and will never—be written down.
We measure with love in our house.
I’m a firm believer in holding off on the “holiday magic” until after the turkey is carved. And trust me, I know that to some, that makes me a Scrooge or a Grinch. It’s not that I don’t love Christmas—because I do! I just believe in savoring each season for what it is.
Thanksgiving, for me, deserves its own sacred space in my heart and mind, and I choose to embrace it with a spirit of gratitude. With that, I want to share a few things I’m thankful for this season—and invite you to do the same.
I’m Thankful For…
Work
I’m thankful for the opportunities that have come my way this year through Lola Magazine. With every issue we publish, every mile we travel to distribute, and every conversation we share with our readers, I’m reminded what an absolute gift this journey is. It’s not without challenges, but there is so much joy in this work. We strive every day to share that with you!
Health
I often take my physical health for granted—waking up able-bodied, without major limitations or concerns for my well-being. What a blessing it is to take on each day with movement and clarity of mind. Note to self: schedule those Pilates classes joyfully!
Support
I truly believe God has blessed me with the most incredible friends, family, and acquaintances—people who uplift and support me in ways I never knew I needed. Time and time again, they show up: cheering, lending a hand, sharing little glimmers of joy. I hope they know how loved they are and how thankful I am for each of them.
I’m sensing a theme here. Through gratitude, joy is found. And isn’t that the perfect segue into our next season? See what I did there, Friends? Thanksgiving is the perfect way to prepare your heart for the Christmas season.
These are just a few things I’m thankful for in this season of thanks and giving. I wonder what you’re thankful for this year. Let us know what’s on your list!
We want to see how you celebrate the holidays!
Tag @readlolamag in your holiday posts and connect with us on socials.