{10 on the 10th // 10 Ways I Prepare My Heart for Thanksgiving}

It’s the 10th of the month, which means another 10 on the 10th! November always feels like a month wrapped in gratitude...the changing leaves, family gatherings, comfort food, and a slower pace before the hustle of December. Today I’m sharing 10 ways I prepare my heart for Thanksgiving. 

November always feels like a holy pause in the middle of a busy year. Before the hustle of Christmas begins, there’s this sweet stretch of days where gratitude and reflection seem to come easier. And while I love the food, the family gatherings, and even the football, I never want to lose sight of the One who makes it all possible.

Here are ten simple yet meaningful ways I prepare my heart for Thanksgiving:

1. Start Each Morning in the Word

There’s no better way to anchor my day than opening my Bible. I love focusing on Psalms of thanksgiving or verses about God’s goodness and provision.

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!” – 1 Chronicles 16:34

2. Keep a Gratitude Journal

Even if it’s just jotting down three small things each day, like a sunset, a warm meal, or Mason’s laughter, it changes my perspective. Writing it down makes me see God’s hand in the ordinary.

3. Play Worship Music in the Background

I often keep a worship playlist on while I cook or clean. Songs like Gratitude by Brandon Lake or Goodness of God by CeCe Winans keep my heart centered on His faithfulness.

4. Take Prayer Walks

When the Texas skies paint themselves in those cotton candy fall colors, I love stepping outside to pray. Something about walking and talking to God under His creation makes me feel so close to Him.

5. Simplify the Calendar

November fills up quickly, but I try to be intentional about carving out space for family time, church, and quiet moments on the porch. It’s easy to let busyness steal our sense of gratitude if we’re not careful.

6. Practice Hospitality

Opening our home doesn’t have to be fancy, it might just be sharing soup with a neighbor or coffee with a friend. Extending welcome reminds me of the generosity God shows me daily.

7. Focus on Family Traditions

From watching the parade together, to baking treats, to snapping pictures at the table, traditions help ground us. They’re not just routines, they’re memories stitched together with love.

8. Pause for Reflection at Sunset

I can’t let a Texas sunset pass without stopping to soak it in. It’s like a daily reminder from God: “I painted this for you. Rest. Be still. I am faithful.”

9. Serve Someone Else

Whether it’s volunteering, writing a note of encouragement, or simply being present for a friend, serving others always shifts my heart toward gratitude.

10. Prayer

In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, I take time to pray for my family...not only over the meal we’ll share, but also over the gathering itself and the year that lies ahead. It’s a way of inviting God into every part of the celebration, asking Him to bless our conversations, fill our home with peace, and remind us of His goodness in every season.

As Thanksgiving draws near, I’m reminded that gratitude isn’t just a day on the calendar, it’s a posture of the heart. When we pause to notice God’s goodness, big and small, our hearts can’t help but overflow with praise.

So, this year, as we set the table and gather around, let’s remember to prepare more than just the turkey and pies...let’s prepare our hearts.

Happy almost Thanksgiving, friends! 🧡