Let me just say it: I’ve reached that wonderful age where my hormones are no longer cooperating. The symptom that pushed me to talk to my doctor was the way I felt waking up. Cortisol greeted me in the morning like a bullhorn. If you’re unfamiliar with this lovely feeling, imagine waking to your brain hitting the panic button before your feet even hit the floor.
Fortunately, I worked with my doctor and have also explored natural ways to keep cortisol on a leash via diet, supplements, etc. This little research project has completely transformed my social media feed into a weird blend of calming motivational quotes and influencers trying to convince me to drink their “proprietary blend” for all that ails me.
But somewhere in the noise, I came across a lady sharing that she has her quiet time and devotion first thing in the morning, before she gets out of bed so that “God gets to my mind before the world does”.
YES!! I instantly knew that was what I needed. So instead of diving into the day and hoping to squeeze in some peace later, I now start with prayer and gratitude the moment I open my eyes. Before I look at my phone. Before I talk to anyone, I talk to God and focus on prayers and gratitude. Philippians 4:8:(ESV), “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Neuroscience agrees that focusing on gratitude can actually help rewire our brains to be happier, calmer, and less like a squirrel on espresso.
And speaking of needing calm… the holidays are upon us! That special season where we gather with loved ones to give thanks, dodge political debates, and hide in the pantry with a glass of wine, escaping your cousin’s third wife who critiques your parenting (no, my son has not started ACT prep, he is 10. And yes, I am aware my daughter is wearing two different shoes).
Don’t panic—this year Shannon Dean shares some great tips in her feature, 8 Tips for a Trouble-Free Thanksgiving. It’s full of great advice to help you sidestep the chaos and maybe even enjoy yourself. And if you’re looking to keep the little ones entertained, Pam Molnar’s piece Host a Kid-Friendly Friendsgiving Party is full of fun ideas. Whether it is just practice for Thanksgiving Day or a fun way for the kids to enjoy their holiday break with friends, it’s a great way to add some fun into the season.
Continuing with the holiday fun, we are excited to share the 2025 Holiday Happenings Guide! It’s stuffed fuller than a turkey on Thanksgiving with tree lightings, Santa sightings, and all kinds of family-friendly events. And if that’s not enough, you can find even more activities in our Family Calendar.
As we wrap up this issue and roll into this chaotic yet joyous season, I hope you’ll join me in striving for an attitude of gratitude. Life is busy, messy, and often unpredictable—but there is still so much good to hold onto. So count your blessings, find the good, hug your people, be a blessing to others, and share some joy!
Author: Lynn Knighton
Lynn has called the Gulf area home since 2006 with her husband Brad and their 3 daughters. Following the sale of her Abrakadoodle franchise, Lynn still wanted to serve families and help them thrive. Becoming the Publisher of Greater Pensacola Parents was the perfect opportunity. Now she invests into family's lives each month by providing the area's #1 go-to resource for moms and dads.
