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  • Little Moments and Lasting Memories

    My older daughter and I are similar in so many ways. When I see her, I see me, even though she is a picture of her dad. In terms of her personality, she is most likely me. We connect most on our love of food and cooking, and we are both empaths. She is thoughtful and kind and has a strong sense of right and wrong. Her ability to stand up for herself and advocate for what she needs is admirable, but a skill that took some time to develop, as she was shy at times. She makes others feel welcomed and is a great friend. She is all around an amazing human. So it goes without saying that I love spending time with her. She loves taking walks, so on Sunday, we made time for a walk in our beautiful neighborhood park. Well, it was more like a run walk, since we are getting ready to participate in a 5K race, where I am her buddy. I am nervous, I won't lie, but I am prepared to take on this challenge for the little human who gave me the title of Mom . This is all part of her after school program that aims to inspire girls to discover, build and grow their self-confidence through running. Even though it has been challenging for her, she is not giving up and I know that having me run with her is going to motivate her even more. It was such a beautiful day and as soon as we both got out of the car, we were ready to run, but first we stretched. Then we started our run. Since I am newer to running, I've been doing an even count of running and walking respectively in order to pace myself. I need it so that I am not fully out of air. We took our time to make it around the park as we talked about everything from school, friends, activities she might be interested in and anything else that she wanted to talk about. It was beautiful seeing her in her element. We then started talking about a classmate that she has been having some difficulty with. She finds her to be quite unkind and rude at times. We talked about how that made her feel and how she has been handling the situation. There have have prior conversations about her to me. I asked her what she thought was the best way to continue handling this situation when her classmate says certain things to illicit some creative ideas. We then proceeded into role play about how she can respond to her. As we talked through it, she was happy with my suggestions. I reminded her that some people seek attention whether it is good or bad, and the best way to solve this problem is to starve her meanness of attention . The less you pay attention to her, the more she will hopefully leave you alone. As we kept walking, we noticed the pasture in the distance where the horses and cows were grazing along with the beautiful autumn leaves that were on the trees along our path. We hugged each other and held hands as we continued our stroll. My heart felt so full in that moment. Part of me looks forward to the amazing person that she will be, and the other part wants her to not grow up. What I do know is that I treasure these tiny moments more than she will ever know. As we walked over to the car, she asked for a pumpkin spice boba. How can I ever say no to that? (Photo credit: Feature image Getty Images)

  • Rediscovering my Passion for Creating Art

    I live for art and creating things. It is my life—my existence. My grandmother once told me in my native tongue Saint Lucian Kweyol/Creole " Lamen se sa ou." This directly translates into, your hands are yours with a deeper underlying meaning of " you have a great ability to create things ." I've always known that, but only began exploring it once I got into secondary school at age 11. I got a chance to explore my creativity with many mediums under the wings of a great teacher. My work got some attention, and at one point in time, I did think I could make it as an artist, but life took its course in a slightly different direction. Somewhere along the way, things got busy, and the time I once devoted to art dwindled. Work, social commitments, and everyday responsibilities took over, and the creative spark I had once felt so deeply faded into the background. Recently, however, I found myself yearning for that familiar feeling of getting lost in the flow of making something beautiful. As I started thinking about ways to refresh my living space, I decided to create more art for my home as a way to bring that creative energy back into my life. Little did I know that this simple decision would reignite my passion for art and change how I viewed creativity altogether. After such a long hiatus, I wasn’t sure if I still “had it.” But as soon as I picked up a brush and set up a canvas, I felt an old but familiar thrill—a quiet excitement. Ideas were flowing, but not with the fluidity that once existed. Yet, the difference now was that I had a clear purpose: I wanted to create pieces that would transform my space and make my home truly feel like my own, so I started with the most private space—my bedroom. This sense of purpose made a significant difference in my approach to creating. It wasn’t just about making something good enough for others to appreciate; it was about making something that I would love to look at every day, something that reflected my personal journey, moods, and aesthetic. That freedom to create for myself, without worrying about perfection or external judgment, made the process feel fresh and liberating. As I dive back into creating, I quickly realize how much my style has changed since I last practiced art regularly. I am learning to embrace imperfections—what once might have been considered mistakes is an opportunity to explore new directions in my pieces. This shift in mindset, from trying to achieve a “perfect” result to simply enjoying the act of creating, is been incredibly therapeutic. It reminds me that art isn’t just about the outcome; it’s about the process. The splatters, smudges, and unexpected color blends add character and make each piece unique. That’s what makes it meaningful. Decorating my home with art that I’ve created is going to add a new dimension to the space—it’s not just where I live, but also a place that tells a story. When I walk into my bedroom, I’m surrounded by pieces that carry the energy of rediscovery and personal expression. It has made my home feel warmer, more vibrant, and more “me.” In a way, my living space is a gallery of my creative journey, where each piece is a chapter in the story of rekindling my love for art. Falling in love with art again is about more than just picking up old hobbies; it is about reconnecting with a part of myself I missed. By creating art for my home, I’ve found joy in the process and I'm learning to appreciate the work of my hands more than I ever have. I’ve been reminded that creativity can be a powerful way to heal, grow, and express who we are. And for that, I’m grateful. What are you creating for your home?

  • I Did a Thing Yesterday

    Voting, Renata Poleon, 2024 I voted. Yes. I am one of the early voters who decided to go in on the last day of early voting. And the best part was that I took my daughters with me. This is the second time they have voted with me and it was even better this time around. Why you may ask? For one, they’re older and have a better understanding of what is going on. They both have been asking so many questions about the electoral process, the candidates, and what my thoughts were on each one. We discussed how the party values changed over time in a weird crossover which nearly blew their minds. But overall, they learned that everyone gets a say. We got dressed, my younger daughter with her teddy and tiny American flag in hand, and went out to vote . While I was in the building, they both stood at my side while I showed them what a ballot looks like. They got a chance to see the many parties on the ballot, with our preferred presidential candidate and representatives. We made our choice and put our ballot in. I say we , because I know my vote has a ripple effect. It is something that affects the futures of so many people. I made a strategic vote; one that I hope secures us a little more time to continue making this democracy better. My ballot was cast in remembrance of my ancestors who worked tirelessly for me to acquire these voting rights. This is a right that I hope to never lose and a right that the girls will forever value. I hope to look back at these moments and treasure it not simply as a civic duty, but as a moral and global responsibility. A single mantra that I have allowed to guide me in this exhausting election cycle is if you can’t vote in good conscience, vote strategically because every vote counts.

  • America, Explain Yourself: We Need to Talk

    At 11:55 p.m. last night with blurred vision, I saw that 60,468,214 Americans cast their vote for the Republican nominee. I predicted the outcome by 9 p.m. while others in my household were saying there was still time. The writing was on the wall and it wasn’t good. I woke up with the confirmation of my thoughts and a dark cloud surrounded me. The disdain for women by men and even worse, from other women, immigrants, and the LGBTQIA+ was so palpable during this election cycle. Before leaving home, I got a chance to talk to my daughter briefly. She then texted me later before leaving home for school to say, “Welp! This is sad that…won. I don’t even want to go to school.” There was no way she was getting out of going to school, but I felt every bit of the underlying meaning of her words. I told her “Even though he won, there are a lot of people working to make sure that we do not lose our rights.” What else can I say to a child who is worried about women losing rights in so many areas of their life?" This black woman here is exhausted and I am taking off my cape. Thank you Black women, Black men, and everyone else who understood the assignment. This message is for you. Please turn off your notifications, eat something hearty, listen to a song that gives you hope, and go outside to breathe in some fresh air. There is only so much saving we can do when so many continue to vote against their interests. We thought that more information meant more knowledge, but this election showed that ignorance is bliss. Even with all the information out there and resources to find the truth, so many would rather cling to their hate. At this time, it is crucial that we hold onto each other and protect ourselves and our mental health like never before. I still believe that there is so much good in this world, but for some reason, it did not show up to save our democracy from this takeover. Even more sadly, to the women who continue to vote against their interests, in the famous words of James Baldwin, “ How much time do you need for your progress? ” Honestly, when will you stop championing the causes of people who want nothing more than to keep their boots on your necks? Is the prospect of cheaper eggs more appealing than the rights of your daughters, sons, and grandchildren? Though things feel dire right now, I will continue to find comfort in those who stand firmly on love and kindness. Thank you for doing your civic and moral duty. To everyone else, “ We can disagree and love each other unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity to exist ”(James Baldwin). Then you're on your own when your eggs don't get cheaper and the rights that so many of your ancestors and mine worked for are gone. This election is not the end of the American story. It may have taken a massive detour and potentially set us back a couple of decades, but I believe there may be hope for us yet. We can't kumbayah our way out of this no matter how many people want to convince you of this. The future may seem dim now, but we will find a way to claw ourselves out of the hole we have created. I am not sure what the solution is, but maybe it is written in history. In the meantime, take care of yourself and the ones you love. Graphic art from @theself_careki /Instagram

  • Don't Feed the Trolls: Protect Your Peace

    This week has been one, and everyone is entitled to an opinion about it. That’s the beauty of freedom of speech. But this freedom can be a double-edged sword as we have seen for some time now. While we have the ability to share our thoughts, it becomes problematic when that freedom turns into unprovoked attacks from anonymous strangers hiding behind screens. Unfortunately, the old advice—kill ‘em with kindness—just doesn’t work anymore. Here are some things to consider when dealing with toxic online behavior. They Already Made up Their Minds . Some people, no matter how reasonable your response is, will always remain who they are. Trolls thrive on attention, and engaging with them often only fuels their behavior. If you do choose to respond, it’s best to keep it brief, fact-based, and logical. Resist the urge to get drawn into a prolonged exchange, because trolls deserve very little of your time. One well-reasoned statement is usually enough to make your point. Anything more than that is just feeding into their desire for attention. The reality is that trolls aren’t looking for a productive conversation; they're looking to confirm their bias and gaslight anyone who gets in their way. They Want to Draw You into Their Negativity . At the heart of trolling is often deep unhappiness. Happy, fulfilled people don’t need to lash out at others. Trolls are usually people dealing with their inner turmoil, and their online behavior is often a cry for help—though a destructive one. They lash out to draw attention to their pain, seeking to inflict the same hurt they feel onto others. This behavior is less about you and more about their need for validation or control. But here’s the thing: We don’t have to feed into it. By refusing to engage negatively, we take away the power trolls crave. Their behavior is exhausting, and sooner or later, they will burn themselves out. If they don’t, there’s always the block button, which works wonders. Don't Underestimate the Negativity of Trolls . I first encountered the darker side of online interaction when my daughter was four years old. She loved watching Ryan’s World  on YouTube—a light-hearted, fun show. One day, I noticed something that shocked me: 150,000 likes, but 75,000 dislikes. I turned to her dad and said, “Can you believe that 75,000 people took time out of their day to dislike a video about hands and feet—or whatever it was?” What struck me even more wasn’t just the number of dislikes, but the vitriol in the comment section. It wasn’t a few negative comments—it was a flood of hatred. The comments weren’t just about disliking the video; they were attacks on Ryan, his family, and anyone who dared to enjoy the content. The comment section had become a battlefield. What I was witnessing was trolling at its worst: a toxic, attention-seeking behavior aimed at a child and his family, simply because they could. Hurt People Hurt People . As online communities continue to grow, trolling has become an even more pervasive issue. People who would never dream of behaving this way in face-to-face interactions often lose all social filters behind the anonymity of a screen. This leads to a breakdown in civility, with people freely unleashing their worst thoughts and behaviors. The hallmark of a troll is a loud, unfounded opinion. They rarely contribute anything meaningful to the conversation, but they dominate with insults, criticism, and drama. When called out for their lack of substance, their go-to defense is often: “That’s just my opinion,” or “I’m entitled to my opinion.” In truth, they don’t engage in critical thinking; they’re more interested in hearing themselves talk—or worse, in gaslighting others for sport. Dealing With Attention Seekers . It’s tempting to think that engaging with trolls will somehow set them straight, but avoid them at all costs. If you must engage, remember these three things: Don’t engage emotionally.  Stay calm, stay rational, and if you do respond, make it a single, fact-based statement. Don’t argue for the sake of arguing.  Don’t let them drag you into a debate. Remember, they’re not interested in dialogue; they’re interested in disruption. Use the block button liberally.  Sometimes the best way to protect your peace is to simply remove the toxic voices from your digital space. Trolls will always exist in some form. The internet allows people to express themselves, but it also gives a platform to those who prefer to spread negativity. However, we don’t have to participate in their games. At the end of the day, we can’t control how others behave online, but we can control how we respond. Choose peace over drama. Choose dignity over disruption. And when in doubt, use the block button—it’s there for a reason. Illustrations from Kaitlyn/ Color Me Hapii

  • Have a Restful Weekend

    What a week! What a week! I’m choosing to end it fabulously, loudly, boldly and with intentional rest over the weekend. I will be taking walks, getting cuddles, creating art, writing, taking baths, journaling and sleeping. I’ve had conversations with the women in my life over the last few days and we have all agreed that our mission from here on out is to rest, chill, block unwanted energy and preserve our sanity. We are reclaiming our time by keeping our words at work far and few between, and minding our business. We will be staying hydrated and not letting this assault take a toll on our mental health. Any mental health expert would point you self-preservation when faced with repeated trauma. Woosah! I will no longer be exposing myself to the individuals who repeatedly cause me harm. We will be establishing clear boundaries, one that isn’t concerned with another’s feelings. We plan on creating community and space for us, and that will be into the foreseeable future. This weekend, a colleague is hosting a Lasers and Feelings game with my daughters. I hope to also catch up on McSweeney’s Internet Tendencies . If satire is your thing, you are in the right place. I need some humor in my life so I might start another round of Psych just to see Shawn and my favorite character Gus solve crime. I will leave you with a little mom and daughter convo. My daughter got in the car at pick up and said "Mom, I have a posh word for proof." I asked her, "What is it?" She said, "Evidence." Lol. And with that, you have a good weekend. (Photo from Magda Fut/Unsplash)

  • 16 Unique Places to Find Thoughtful Christmas Gifts for a Mindful Holiday Season

    The holiday season is the perfect time to give thoughtfully. If you’re looking to support small businesses, find unique treasures, and shop mindfully, these are some of the best places to find one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts for your loved ones. Etsy . Etsy is the go-to online marketplace for handmade, vintage, and custom printed items. From jewelry to personalized artwork, you can find countless options from small businesses worldwide. Some popular Etsy categories for holiday gifts include: • Personalized home decor  • Customized clothing and accessories • Vintage and upcycled gifts Local Artisan Markets and Holiday Fairs . Holiday markets and artisan fairs are treasure troves of unique gifts crafted by local artists and makers. Many cities and towns host these during the holiday season, and they’re perfect for finding handmade items like: • Jewelry, pottery, and glassware • Handcrafted leather goods • Local food specialties, jams, and baked goods Local Bookstores . For book lovers, local independent bookstores offer not only a curated selection of books but often unique gifts you won’t find elsewhere. Many bookstores stock items like: • Special edition books and signed copies • Unique journals and notebooks • Book-themed gifts, like candles, puzzles, and tote bags Thrift Stores and Antique Shops . If you’re looking for something with a little history or vintage charm, thrift stores and antique shops can be wonderful places to find unique, affordable gifts. Items you might find include: • Vintage jewelry or clothing • Antique home decor or collectibles • Old records, cameras, or other nostalgic items Local Craft Breweries and Wineries . Craft breweries and wineries offer unique products that make great gifts, especially for those who appreciate locally crafted beverages. Many also sell gift sets with branded glassware, and some even offer special holiday releases. Options could include: • Limited-edition holiday brews or wines • Beer and wine tasting kits • Gift baskets with local snacks and pairings Museum and Gallery Shops . They are often overlooked, but they carry an impressive range of gifts that can be perfect for art lovers. From exclusive art prints to unique decor items, you can find gifts that are both thoughtful and stylish. Look out for: • Exclusive prints and posters • Books on art, culture, and history • Unique home decor inspired by exhibits Farmers’ Markets . Farmers’ markets are great places to find handcrafted, artisanal gifts. Many vendors offer unique food items perfect for the foodie in your life. Consider picking up items like: • Handmade soaps and candles • Locally made jams, honey, or hot sauces • Unique woodwork, pottery, or leather goods Online Marketplaces for Independent Brands (e.g., Uncommon Goods, Society6). Online marketplaces like Uncommon Goods and Society6 showcase products from independent artists and designers. You’ll find a mix of quirky, fun, and unique items, like: • Personalized kitchen gadgets and tools • Creative wall art, prints, and tapestries • Handmade games, puzzles, and activity sets These platforms are great if you’re shopping for something specific, as they allow you to filter by category or theme. Handmade Soap and Skincare Boutiques . For a luxurious yet practical gift, local skincare boutiques or artisanal soap makers are excellent spots to explore. Handmade soaps and skincare items make beautiful gifts, especially for those who appreciate natural and eco-friendly products. You might find: • Scented soaps and bath bombs • Natural skincare products • Special holiday sets with seasonal scents Plant Nurseries and Garden Centers . If you’re shopping for someone with a green thumb, visit a local plant nursery or garden center. These places often have a unique selection of plants, gardening tools, and accessories, as well as holiday-themed plants like poinsettias or small Christmas trees. Gift ideas include: • Unique indoor plants or succulents • Gardening kits and tools • Planters and pots in various designs Subscription Services . A subscription can be a gift that keeps on giving all year. Look for local or niche subscription services that align with the recipient’s interests, such as: • Monthly book or magazine subscriptions • Wine or beer-of-the-month clubs • Local coffee roasters or tea clubs Record Stores . For the music lover in your life, independent record stores often carry rare vinyl, limited editions, and even music-inspired gifts like band T-shirts and posters. In addition to vinyl, consider looking for: • Retro-inspired record players • Music memorabilia • Gift cards for the store Specialty Food Stores . For unique edible gifts, specialty food stores are a goldmine. Many local stores carry gourmet items perfect for holiday gift-giving, like: • Imported chocolates, cheeses, and cured meats • Rare spices, sauces, and cooking oils • Gift baskets with a mix of local and international goodies Local Art Studios and Maker Spaces . Many local art studios and maker spaces sell works by local artists, from ceramics to paintings and handblown glass. This is a fantastic option for one-of-a-kind art and decor items, like: • Hand-thrown pottery • Original paintings or mini sculptures • Decorative glassware or ornaments Ethical and Fair Trade Stores . If you’re looking to support ethical practices, fair trade stores offer beautiful gifts crafted by artisans around the world. These items often come with stories that make them even more meaningful, and they’re usually handmade using sustainable materials. You can find items like: • Handmade textiles, scarves, and jewelry • Wood carvings, woven baskets, and home decor • Fair trade coffee, chocolate, and spice s Craft and DIY Kits from Hobby Stores . Finally, if you’re shopping for someone creative, consider gifting a DIY or craft kit from a hobby or craft store. These kits make for fun, hands-on gifts and can include: • Knitting, crochet, or embroidery kits • Paint-by-numbers or mini sculpture sets • Build-your-own model kits Finding unique gifts doesn’t have to be challenging. From local markets to online marketplaces, these places are perfect for discovering meaningful, one-of-a-kind presents that reflect thoughtfulness and creativity. Happy holiday shopping!

  • Junie B. Jones: The Endearing Classic Every Kid Should Read

    "My name is Junie B. Jones. The B stands for Beatrice. Except I don't like Beatrice. I just like B and that's all." This is the opening line for almost every one of the twenty-eight books in the Junie B. Jones series. It has been a staple in our family for several months. I did not realize that the series was controversial until I decided to look up the reviews. Some parents refer to Junie B. Jones as promoting poor grammar, selfish behavior and a negative attitude. They also highlighted it with things like "literary trash" and "beware of Junie B. Jones." I was honestly flabbergasted and appalled by these comments, because as someone who has worked with kids since I was nineteen years old, I think Babara Park captured the mind of a child entering kindergarten to first grade with impeccable accuracy, and for that reason, the series gets five stars from me. Junie B. Jones is comedy gold for young readers. The story centers on "almost six-year-old" Junie B. Jones and her adventures. Junie B. Jones does not fit the mold of what little girls are taught to be. She is spirited, loud, and opinionated, yet funny, friendly, and overall a happy child. She constantly breaks the rules and is allowed to course through her mistakes without there needing to be a moral of the story element. Time and time again, Junie B. Jones falters and she is allowed to recover from her silly, childlike mistakes. Park really invites us into the mind of Junie B. Jones, the kid who doesn't always get it right but keeps on trying. I may have enjoyed the series more than my kids, because there were so many moments of intense laughter between my girls and I. There was so much excitement to huddle into one of their twin beds to read two to three chapters a night. This is the reason why the series has sold 65 million copies in 25 years. As an adult, I connected with Junie B. Jones and so did my children. It has inspired a love of reading and confidence in my children in a way that has been quite admirable. Junie B. Jones knows who she is and what she wants and isn't afraid to speak up for herself. Junie B. in my eyes is a mentor and not the menace that she is sometimes described as. There are beautiful lessons to be learned from Junie B. Jones and it is well worth the read. (Photo of Junie B. Jones/ Wharton Center and Book Series/ Walmart )

  • A Red Lip Never Fails: Find Your Perfect Red

    A red lip is a bold statement, especially around the holidays. I've loved red lipstick since my early twenties. As someone who cannot wear eye makeup during certain seasons, I focus on my lips. Whether I worked as a nanny, in human resources, or as a substitute teacher, I love wearing a red lip. The only time I recall not wearing a red lip for a couple of years was the early stages of motherhood where I became a very relaxed and muted version of myself. Then there was COVID-19, where I worked from home for over three years and barely wore an ounce of makeup. By this time, I owned not one red lipstick. I don't know what I was thinking, but I was clearly out of my mind. As a way to get back to my normal self, I went on the hunt for red lipstick since my old lipstick was discontinued. I was so lucky to have found my color on my first try. Here are some tips on finding your perfect red lipstick: How to Choose the Perfect Red See it on Your Skin Tone . It is recommended that we know our undertones to pick out the perfect lip color, but that may not work all the time. If you don't know whether you are a warm, neutral, or cool undertone, shopping in person is your best bet. For those who do know their undertone, you can flex your muscles with both in-person and online shopping. Choose your Finish . Color is not the only thing to consider when choosing lipstick. The finish is equally important to the final look. Here are a few things to consider: Are you looking for a long-wearing matte formula, a tinted lip balm, or a satin lipstick with high moisture? Keep in mind that a lipstick’s texture (cream, matte, or gloss) could affect the way the shade looks on your lips. If you want to ease your way into a bold red lip, a gloss is a great place to start and build from. Some websites allow you to find your perfect shade by uploading a photo of yourself and applying different shades Accentuate . Your overall look contributes to the appearance of your lipstick. You can add a lip liner to perfect the outer lines of your lipstick or for contrast. You can also go for a soft look, something dewy, or even full glam. Whatever direction you go, this is the moment to enhance your lipstick and accentuate your features. If you keep these three things in mind, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect color. Bold, Renata Poleon, 2024 (Top photo from Shutterstock)

  • Grateful Hearts, Small Gatherings: A Peaceful Thanksgiving

    When Thanksgiving comes around, we tend to think of the traditionally large family gathering; the kind you see paraded on television around this time of year. Thanksgiving doesn't have to be a grand affair with a large gathering if that is not what you want. As someone who grew up in a country where Thanksgiving wasn't celebrated, it took some time to appreciate the holiday. I have learned to embrace the intended spirit of Thanksgiving—family and food. For over ten years, I have chosen to celebrate with just my immediate family, my mother and stepdad. You can still create a warm and meaningful Thanksgiving experience, minus the unwanted interactions and insane amount of cleaning. If you're celebrating with just immediate family or alone, you are in good company. Here are a few ways to enjoy small gatherings for a peaceful Thanksgiving . Small Family Thanksgiving Keep it Simple . Don't feel pressured to prepare a full Thanksgiving feast. We create a smaller meal with a few of our favorite dishes that are just as satisfying. We also forgo the turkey because it is just too much for a family of four. We indulge in a roasted chicken and or leg of lamb. Focus on Quality Time . Use this opportunity to connect with your small family. Share stories, play games, or just relax together. Get members to contribute to the celebration, especially children, so they feel like they are part of it. My daughters love baking, so they will be on cake duty. Create a Cozy Atmosphere . Decorate your home with festive touches, light some candles, and play soft music to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Continue to make home a safe space where everyone feels that they are a priority . This year my daughter wants to play a piece on her violin which I can't wait to hear. Thanksgiving Alone Treat Yourself  . Indulge in your favorite foods, watch a movie , or read a good book . Enjoy the fact that you are not in a situation of forced interactions with people you may not want to be around. Whether it wasn't by choice that you're celebrating alone, use this time to enjoy your own company. You are your own best friend . Volunteer . Give back to your community by volunteering at a local shelter or food bank. Whatever way you choose to offer your time, this is a great opportunity to redirect your focus to helping others. This allows you to feel part of a community while doing an act of service that is rewarding . Connect with Others . Arrange phone calls or video chats with friends and family. Though you may not be in the same space, city, or even country as your loved ones, you can connect with them by other means. Family is where the love is present, so keep cultivating these relationships even though you're far away. Practice Gratitude . Take time to reflect on the things you're grateful for, such as your loved ones, your health, and even your personal growth. Know that you are here with purpose, so even though you may not be surrounded with the kind of love you deserve, you are grateful to be here to celebrate, even if it is on your own. Happy Thanksgiving and have a wonderful time. (Photo credit: Family Photo/Adobe Stock and Woman eating City Signal )

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