About a week ago, things started getting a little out of control in my life. My schedule started filling up with parties, meetings, engagements, etc. The kids got sick, doctors appointments became necessary, and petty personal drama began to sprout. Yet, in the midst of all of that, I was thrilled because Thanksgiving was imminent! And, it wasn’t going to be an ordinary Thanksgiving. This was going to be an extra special, 2-day celebration because my son’s 4th birthday was the day before. Here’s how I prepped for the celebration, and how things played out:
The Cake and the Preparation
The first thing I planned was the cake which was a pinata cake filled with my son’s favorite candies. I’m so glad my daughter was happy to help with the cake prep because it took forever to make – four layers, 7 eggs, lots of frosting, and 2 cups of small candies. I had to do it in stages over the course of 3 days. Why on earth would I take that much time to make a cake for a 4-year-old? I did it for the joy I saw on my little boy’s face. It made all the effort completely worth it, and I would do it again. I’m thankful that my niece captured his excitement here:
Sidenote: the cake tasted great, but I learned that the kids really liked the candy more than the cake. In fact, on Thanksgiving morning my kids got up early and helped themselves to the candy (from the cake) and cookies from my friend Lauren. Evidence was everywhere – candy on the floor, smeared frosting, missing cookies. Thankfully, my son confessed to the whole thing. My daughter? She remained mute, hoping to get away with it! She’s so sneaky!
The Pizza
Before there was cake, there was pizza for the birthday party. Let me tell you, my dad is known for his pizza making skills. There’s just something about his crust (my favorite part) and the sauce that can’t be copied (believe me, we’ve tried). And, he didn’t disappoint! I think he cranked out 7 pizzas that night. Among 10 people, we had very little leftover! I don’t have any pizza pictures to share because we were too busy eating it!
Thankful Thanksgiving
The next day was just as joyful. We had great food and good conversation around the dinner table as we tried to solve the problems of the world. There’s something really nice about being able to air out stuff that you can’t talk about in other circles because it’s too sensitive, taboo, whatever. We had a safe environment that night with several generations represented. It was a great conversation with so many perspectives. I loved it and we could have gabbed for hours. Wait, we did gab for hours! I tell you, with a full belly and heart, I ended the day feeling extremely grateful for my family and the many blessings that we’ve been given.
How was your Thanksgiving? As I’ve talked to people this week, I’ve learned that some had more eventful days than mine – and that’s saying it mildly. My friends battled sickness, tended to injuries, or had tense, strained engagements with family/friends. Regardless of how you spent your day, I hope you spent time reflecting on the positives in your life–a heart that beats, a body that moves, and/or friends and family that you love. Beyond Thanksgiving, continue to have those thoughts of thankfulness. Whatever they are, they are always there and should not be missed. They are the blessings that are in our midst every single day!
Mrs. Traylor is a Fitness Instructor, NASM Certified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach, AFPA Certified Prenatal and Postnatal Fitness Specialist, wife, and momma who provides actionable advice for positive lifestyle changes with fitness, nutrition, and wellness. Read about Wendy’s inspiring entrepreneurial journey, and subscribe to Wendy’s newsletter here!
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