it’s the small things

If you asked me my favorite holiday, I might say Thanksgiving first.

Not because of the food—though that’s always good—but because of the tradition. Every year, my family takes a trip to the beach. There’s something about stepping away from everything, feeling the sand beneath your feet, and just being together that makes it special. It’s not rushed. It’s not complicated. It’s simply us.

But if I’m being honest…
Christmas holds my heart.

There’s something about this season that feels different. It’s like, for a moment, the world softens. People smile a little more. They give a little more. They believe a little more.

It’s the one time of year where even adults carry a childlike faith again—like miracles are still possible.

And I love that.

I love the idea of blessing others.
Of giving without expecting anything in return.
Of doing something kind and unexpected, just because you can.

It’s not about the gifts for me.
It’s the small things.

The laughter that fills a room.
The quiet moments that don’t need to be explained.
The feeling of togetherness that reminds you what really matters.

And now… it means even more.

Because my mom was recently diagnosed with Dementia.

So these moments, these holidays, these gatherings—
they’re no longer just traditions.

They’re memories we are holding onto… and creating with intention.

It’s about capturing the laughter while it’s here.
Sitting a little longer.
Listening a little closer.
Taking in the sound of her voice, the warmth of her presence.

It’s about making memories now
that will last a lifetime for us.

And most of all… the music.

There’s one song that never fails to reach deep inside me—
“O Holy Night.”

Something about it feels sacred.
It doesn’t just sound beautiful… it feels like hope.
Like light breaking through the dark.
Like a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, something greater is still at work.

So yes, Thanksgiving will always be where my family gathers by the water…

But Christmas?
Christmas is where I hold a little tighter, love a little deeper,
and make sure the moments we have become the memories we keep.

Because now, more than ever…
it’s about the small things.