This is my absolute favorite time of year. There is just a different spirit in the air… I love to see peoples gratitude posts around this time, and see all of the families coming together to share a meal. With this season comes a lot of busy work to do, cooking, cleaning, hosting, driving, traveling, shopping, etc. and it can become overwhelming. I often hear people talking about how many places they have to go, and how many Thanksgiving dinners they have to attend, and I find myself smiling knowing that people have somewhere to go, and people who want them there. Because we often forget that not everyone has somewhere to go for the holidays. So when we find ourselves stressing out over all of the people we have to make sure we see, I am very quickly reminded of what a blessing that is each year and the stress melts away. To be loved, to be wanted, and to have loved ones to share this season with is the greatest blessing anyone could hope for. Whether your tribe is large or small… whether you have one house to visit, or four houses to visit… aren’t you lucky?

I am never able to turn down a food drive or donation opportunity this time of year because I am also reminded of how many people need this comfort food in their bellies. I am grateful to the kitchens who serve those without a place to call home, and grateful to the grocery stores and all of the organizations who accept donations on their behalves as well. Knowing there are so many people who remember the less fortunate, and make sure that they are not alone this time of year, is another blessing to count.

This month has been full of chaos and tragedy around the state California… and I cannot thank God enough for the safety of my loved ones and the opportunity to spend another Thanksgiving around a table seeing their smiling faces. I have found myself disappointed that certain family members wont be at our table this year as they have other tables to sit at… but then I remember, at least they are here, they are healthy, and they are happy… and I will see them another day. There are many reasons to feel Thankful this year – but none greater than the health and wellness of our family and friends.

Tomorrow our day will be filled with laughter, conversation, new friends, old friends, family, and delicious food… it will be loud, it will be chaotic, and it will be amazing. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite days of the year because everyone comes together.

Of course I am also thankful for all of my incredible clients that I had the honor of photographing this year. I have two weddings left, and several other smaller shoots to come before I call it a year in the photography world – and I am grateful for it all. Take a look at Jake & Julianne’s wedding at Mission Viejo Country Club:

May you all have a very blessed Thanksgiving Holiday. Stay safe, stay warm, and spread all of the love and gratitude you can to everyone you come in contact with.