The Last Thanksgiving with My Daddy Some memories stay tucked away in our hearts forever. This is one of mine. Our last Thanksgiving together. It was an amazing day. One that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Daddy and I both knew something neither of us needed to say. We knew this would be our last Thanksgiving together. Our last time seeing each other here on earth. There was a moment. Just a look between the two of us. No words. No explanation. Just a look. And somehow, in that one moment, we understood. I think about that look often. The love, the knowing, and the quiet goodbye. Sometimes the most meaningful conversations happen without saying a single word. I am grateful we had that day. I am grateful for that moment. And I am grateful for the love that never leaves us. Monday’s reminder: Don’t wait for the perfect words. Don’t wait for another holiday. Don’t wait for tomorrow to tell someone what they mean to you. Make the memories. Take the pictures. Hold the hugs a little longer. Say I love you. Because someday, those moments become the memories we hold closest. And Daddy, if I could have one more Thanksgiving with you, I’d take it in a heartbeat. Forever loved. Forever missed. What is one memory you carry in your heart that you wish you could relive just one more time? This is such a beautiful way to begin Monday Memories. It reminds us that love doesn’t end when someone leaves this earth.

Some Sundays invite us to slow down, take a breath, and look at where our hearts are leading us. Joshua 24:15 reminds us that faith is a choice. Not just a choice we make on Sunday, but one we make every day. We choose how we treat others. We choose what we allow to fill our hearts. We choose whether fear or faith gets the final word. We choose kindness when life gets difficult. And we choose to keep trusting God, even when we don’t understand the path ahead. Life isn’t always easy. Families struggle. Caregivers get tired. Bodies hurt. Hearts carry burdens that others may never see. But we don’t have to walk through it alone. Today, let’s make room for God in our homes, our conversations, our decisions, and our everyday lives. We don’t have to have everything figured out. We just need to keep choosing faith, one day at a time. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. May your Sunday bring peace to your heart, strength for your journey, and gratitude for the blessings we sometimes overlook. We are Still Rising. With love, Ma Laurie A little Sunday reflection: What is one thing you want to invite more of into your home this week? Faith, patience, forgiveness, peace, or love?

Well, apparently, I’ve reached a whole new level of professionalism! 🤣 Picture this… There I am, helping put away costume tubs at the dance studio. And what am I wearing? SLIPPERS!!! Yep. Not sneakers. Not work shoes. SLIPPERS! Why? Because they were COMFY! Apparently, my brain said, “We’re getting the job done!” And my feet said, “We’re doing it in comfort, thank you very much!” Who says you can’t be productive and comfortable at the same time? Sometimes life is too short to worry about matching your shoes to the occasion. A little laughter, a little silliness, and getting things done one slipper step at a time! Your turn! What’s the funniest or most ridiculous thing you’ve worn while getting something done? Come on, make me feel better! We’re Still Rising… sometimes in our slippers!

A little preparation can make a big difference. As the temperatures drop, staying healthy can become a little more challenging. For someone living with a chronic illness, colder weather can bring increased pain, stiffness, fatigue, breathing difficulties, and changes in daily routines. And if you’re caring for someone with a chronic illness, you may find yourself juggling their needs while trying to keep yourself healthy, too. Let’s talk about some simple ways to prepare for the colder months. 1. Keep your body warm. Cold temperatures can increase joint stiffness and discomfort. - Dress in warm layers. - Keep hands and feet warm. - Use blankets and heating pads safely. - Avoid sudden temperature changes when possible. - Keep your home comfortably warm. People living with arthritis, fibromyalgia, and circulation problems may notice increased discomfort during colder weather. 2. Protect your immune health. Winter often brings more respiratory illnesses, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV. A few helpful habits include: - Wash your hands regularly. - Stay current with recommended vaccinations. (If that is something you believe in). - Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. - Drink enough water. - Get adequate sleep. - Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Ask your healthcare provider which vaccines are recommended for your age and health conditions. And if you do kit believe in vaccines then ask what extra protection naturally you can take. 3. Don’t forget hydration and nutrition. We often think about drinking water during hot weather. But hydration matters just as much in winter. Dehydration can contribute to fatigue, dizziness, constipation, and confusion. Try: - Keeping water nearby throughout the day. - Enjoying warm soups and nourishing meals. - Including colorful fruits and vegetables. - Eating regular meals with adequate protein. 4. Keep moving, even when it’s cold. When the weather gets colder, it’s tempting to become less active.

A fresh morning. A new beginning. Another opportunity to find joy in the little things. Sometimes we wake up with a thousand things on our minds. The unfinished tasks, yesterday's worries, and tomorrow's uncertainties. But today? Today is a gift. Step outside. Feel the sunshine on your face. Take a deep breath. Let your heart remember that life is still full of possibilities. You don't have to have everything figured out today. You don't have to be everything to everybody. You just have to show up and take the next step. And if all you accomplish today is getting out of bed, finding a reason to smile, and giving yourself a little grace... That's a pretty good start! Remember, my friends, we are not done growing. We are not done laughing. We are not done making memories. We are STILL RISING! May God fill your day with sunshine, peace, unexpected blessings, and a little laughter along the way. With love, Ma Laurie