This Thanksgiving isn’t going to look like the ones in past years for me. There will be no last-minute trips to the grocery store to pick up all the ingredients for the menu, no gathering around the table at dinner, and no singing along to Christmas music on the hour-long drive home from my grandmother’s house. Instead, this Thanksgiving, will be spent in the nursing home with people I see daily, who have become like family.
While I’ve come to terms with the fact that this holiday season will feel very different to me, I’ve also realized that it’s not such a bad thing. This year marks a time to make new memories and start my own traditions. My main priority this holiday season is to spend as much time as possible with my grandmother, which has meant declining holiday invites. I’m actually feeling quite comfortable with having a low-key Thanksgiving, consisting of a workout class in the morning and catering a light meal for myself before heading over to see my grandmother for dinner in the evening.
This whole month has been a period of reflection for me. From leaving the stability of a full-time job to trusting myself enough to embrace the uncertainty ahead, I’m feeling both fulfilled and challenged in a new and exciting way. Being able to set my own schedule has taken an enormous amount of stress and pressure off me (so long, #SundayScaries), and I’ve found myself more productive working at different times of the day rather than straight through.
As I continue to navigate life as a caregiver on the path of entrepreneurship, I’m thankful for my community here and on social media. Connecting with blog readers and social media followers is always a highlight, and I love how supportive this community is. From checking in to see how my grandmother is doing to helping me network, know that I’m always grateful. The support from this community led me to create The Hospital Bar and encouraged me to go out on my own with In Steil Comms. I’m excited to take on more projects as my agency grows and work with mission-driven people, brands, and organizations. Lastly, I’m grateful for all of the hardworking and dedicated aids at the nursing home who take such good care of my grandmother and who foster an environment where both my grandmother and I feel comfortable. They feel like part of my caregiving team, and I am most thankful for them!
What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?
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