Happy Thanksgiving! My stomach is still full and I’m leaning toward a good, indulgent nap — this year’s holiday felt quieter than usual with no out-of-town guests, but we prepared just as much food, so you can imagine the leftovers situation. Between the cooking, the feasting, and the long list of dishes to clean, I’m grateful for a slow day afterward. I hope you and your family had a warm, delicious holiday. I’m truly thankful you’re part of our community.
Here are Five Little Things I loved this week.
1. Cranberries
Cranberries are the bright, tart star of the season. I can’t get enough of them right now — from simple sauces to vibrant salads, they bring color and acidity that lift heavy holiday plates. Lately I’ve been making a cranberry wine sauce that pairs beautifully with turkey, and a cranberry-walnut kale salad that’s become a go-to side when we want something fresh to balance the richness of the meal. If you have homemade cranberry sauce on hand, you can fold it into muffins, stir it into yogurt, or toss it with roasted winter squash for an easy side. Keep an eye out for more cranberry ideas this season: they’re versatile, store well in the fridge, and transform leftovers into something new.
2. Leftovers
Leftovers are one of the best parts of Thanksgiving. Sliced turkey on a simple plate is always satisfying, but it’s fun to rethink leftovers into completely different meals. Turkey pumpkin pot pies are a cozy way to use up meat and mashed potatoes, while a day-after turkey shepherd’s pie turns leftover vegetables and gravy into a comforting casserole. For a lighter option, turkey and orzo soup stretches the bird and creates a bowl that’s easy to warm up and serve all week. Don’t be afraid to mix components: toss cubed turkey into a grain bowl with roasted root vegetables, or fold cranberry sauce into cornbread batter to bring a touch of holiday sweetness to breakfast. Proper storage and labeling help everything stay fresh and safe to eat for several days.
3. Coming Home
Traveling away from home makes holidays feel different in a meaningful way. I spent some time away last week and returned just before Thanksgiving, which made coming back to family especially sweet. Being away reminds you how much everyday comforts and shared traditions matter — the smell of a roasting turkey, the laughter around the table, and little rituals that make the day feel like home. Whether you’ve traveled or just returned to an empty house, take a moment to savor small reunions and reconnect. Those moments are what give the season its true value.
4. Decking the Halls
Once the dishes are washed and leftovers are stashed away, I love switching gears to holiday decorating. There’s something restorative about bringing lights and ornaments into the house after the bustle of a big meal. We’ve been bringing out garlands, stringing lights, and trimming the tree this weekend — simple touches that make the whole home feel festive. Decorating doesn’t have to be elaborate: cluster candles on a mantel, hang a wreath on the door, or add a bowl of seasonal fruit and sprigs of evergreen to a side table. These small changes lift the mood and create a cozy background for the weeks ahead.
5. Turkey for All
Pets add a lot of charm — and sometimes chaos — to holiday gatherings. With two kitties and a dog in our house, I’m always reminded how curious and determined animals can be around a Thanksgiving table. It’s worth planning a simple spot away from the kitchen where pets can relax while you carve and serve, and keeping tempting scraps out of reach so curious mouths don’t get into trouble. Watching their antics can be a funny reminder to slow down and enjoy the silly, unplanned moments that make holidays memorable.
Wishing you a restful weekend and a delicious start to the holiday season. Whether you’re still catching up on sleep, enjoying leftover sandwiches, or stringing lights across the living room, I hope these small pleasures bring you warmth and joy.