The beauty of warmth, thanksgiving, and togetherness make Thanksgiving special (Cavoto, 2020). It is a unique day characterized by traditions, great meals, and memorable times with family members. In many homes, thanksgiving is like a cacophony of cooking, cheerfulness, and story after story, making the house comfortable and joyful.
For me and many others, thanksgiving is found in the kitchen; that is where families and friends gather and where, for a moment, the scent of roasted turkey, savory side dishes, and sweet pies fills the air, making a lasting memory for the holidays.
One of the personal highlights of my Thanksgiving is the preparation of a beloved dish: Maple Glazed Carrots. The ingredients in this recipe might be simple, but it contributes sweetness, which is quite unusual for a savory feast. For this process, carrots are peeled and sliced diagonally for that rustic fashion feeling. The olive oil-coated slices are then sprinkled with salt and pepper and roasted to achieve the desired tenderness. Lastly, a generous maple syrup and butter drizzle is added, followed by a final 5-minute roast, resulting in a lustrous, mouthwatering coat.
However, Thanksgiving is not just about dinner but also about appreciating simple things in life (Cavoto, 2020). It has since become a tradition for many, including me, to stroll after indulging in the plentiful meal. Local Park Nature Trail is a peaceful place where I enjoy going the day after Thanksgiving when I need solace and beauty. This place’s serene pathways and spectacular scenes are ideal grounds for reappraising the joys and blessings of life. Strolling through dry leaves, experiencing the mild coolness, and seeing the sunshine through the leaves in late autumn are relaxing moments of calmness and appreciation.
These walks are not only an excuse to burn off those Thanksgiving calories; they are an opportunity to spend time in nature, take it easy, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world (Thompson, 2023). However, the falling leaves, fresh air, and peaceful mood on the road contrast with that loud holiday showing us the harmony of life. Thanksgiving, therefore, becomes more than a feast on food and family, but the beauty that encompasses us in nature, in simple traditions, and moments of silent self-reflection. It is a good time to appreciate the earth’s bounties, home warmth, and friends’ companionship.