Happy Thursday, friends!
We’re heading into one of my very favorite weekends of the whole year...our annual Polar Express weekend! If you’ve been around Hall Around Texas for a while, you know how much this tradition means to our little family. Every November, we pack up the camper and head about an hour and a half southeast for a weekend full of Christmas cheer, small-town magic, and sweet family time. There’s something about that train ride under twinkling lights that takes me straight back to the wonder of childhood. It’s one of those traditions I look forward to all year long.
Before we hit the road, I wanted to pause and continue my Thankful Thursday series...a little space each week to slow down, reflect, and count the blessings that God has so graciously tucked into my days. Here’s what I’m thankful for this week…
1. Traditions That Anchor Us
There’s something so grounding about traditions...the kind that weave through the years and remind you who you are and where you come from. Our Polar Express weekend is one of those for us. It’s not about the train ride as much as it is the laughter, the hot cocoa, the slow mornings at the campsite, and the joy of doing something together. Those little things build memories that I know we’ll talk about for years to come.
2. The Gift of Family Time
Life feels so fast most days, doesn’t it? Between work, hockey, and everything in between, uninterrupted family time can be hard to come by. That’s why weekends like this mean so much. No schedules, no rushing... just the three of us soaking in the moment. I’m so thankful for these pockets of time to slow down, connect, and simply be.
3. The Excitement of the Season
The twinkle lights are starting to appear around town, Christmas playlists are creeping into my mornings, and that sweet anticipation of the holidays is in full swing. I’m thankful for the simple joy that this season brings...the cozy sweaters, festive scents, and that feeling of wonder that never gets old. It really is the most wonderful time of the year.
4. The Beauty of Small-Town Life
There’s just something about small-town Texas this time of year. The Christmas lights lining the courthouse square, local shops decked out in red and green, and the way everyone seems just a little kinder. I’m so thankful to live in a place where life moves a little slower and people still wave when you drive by.
5. The Faithfulness of God
Even in the middle of busy seasons, God has such a gentle way of reminding me that He’s near. In answered prayers, in quiet moments on the porch, in laughter around a campfire...He’s there. His goodness and presence are constant, and I’m endlessly thankful for that.
No matter how full or busy life gets, gratitude has this beautiful way of bringing everything back into focus. It reminds me that joy isn’t found in perfection, it’s found in presence.
I’d love to hear from you, friend! What’s something you’re thankful for this week? Maybe it’s a tradition, a person, or just a small moment that made you smile. Let’s keep spreading gratitude, one Thursday at a time.
Until next time, wishing you a cozy, joy-filled weekend full of faith, family, and maybe a few extra marshmallows in your hot cocoa.
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