As we step into the holiday season, I want to take a moment to wish you and your family many blessings. This time of year invites us to celebrate life in all its beautiful complexity. It’s a time for:
- Joy (which can sometimes bring up grief)
- Connection (even when loneliness sneaks in)
- Giving (both thoughtful gifts and the gift of our presence)
- Reflection (even amid when the hustle and bustle)
Living here in Asheville, North Carolina—where our community is still reeling and healing from the devastation of Hurricane Helene—has deepened my appreciation for the power of connection, resilience, and community more than ever. (Heck, I even wrote a book about it!) Supporting local businesses, artists, and creators is one small way to help rebuild. I’m so grateful for those who’ve shown their love to our region.
But today, I want to focus on you. Whether you’ve had a challenging year or one filled with joy. Thanksgiving is a chance to pause and anchor yourself in gratitude.
Here are three simple gratitude rituals you can do with your loved ones when you gather:
1. The Gratitude Jar
- Before your Thanksgiving meal, set out small slips of paper and pens.
- Ask each family member to write down something they’re grateful for.
- Place the slips in a jar, then take turns reading them aloud during or after the meal.
This ritual creates a beautiful opportunity to celebrate shared and individual blessings.
2. A Gratitude Walk
- Take a walk together as a family, whether it’s in your neighborhood, a park, or your own backyard.
- As you walk, invite everyone to share something they’re thankful for in nature, in each other, or in life.
It’s a simple way to connect with loved ones while appreciating the world around you.
3. The Gratitude Circle
- Before your meal, gather everyone in a circle.
- Take turns sharing one thing you’re grateful for this year.
- Make it extra special by passing around a “talking stick” type object—maybe a gratitude stone or a candle to hold as each person speaks.
This ritual fosters connection and creates a heartfelt moment to start your celebration.
Gratitude rituals like these can deepen your family’s connections and turn Thanksgiving into a truly Sacred Celebration.
As I reflect on my own year, I’m grateful for so much (Hurricane Helene aside)—especially the chance to do work that lights me up, whether it’s coaching, writing, speaking, or creating meaningful gifts like those in my Sacred Celebrations collection.
From my heart to yours, thank you for being part of my community. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Thanksgiving!
With deep gratitude and appreciation,
Elizabeth
P.S. Don’t forget, I’ll be sharing a HOLIDAY DISCOUNT CODE starting Friday. If you’re looking for meaningful gifts, take a peek at Sacred Celebrations now and get inspired.
P.P.S. If you’re local to Asheville, come see me at the Highland Brewery Holiday Market on Friday, Nov. 29 from 11am-4pm. I’d love to help you find the perfect gifts for those you love (including yourself)!
