AggieStrong the Ultimate Life Coach

Traditionally, I've spent every Thanksgiving preparing a grand homemade Caribbean feast featuring oxtail stew, curry goat, ham, salmon, rice and peas, potato salad, pasta salad, carrot juice, and more. However, this year, I decided to take my own advice from my blog post, " 12 Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving When You Don't Feel Like It. " The high cost of groceries, the exhaustion from cooking, and the fact that my daughters had different food preferences led me to skip the cooking altogether and opt for takeout. I ordered from two different restaurants to satisfy everyone's tastes. The combined total costs: 127.25, for a family of four without the muss and fuss. From our favourite Chinese Restaurant, I ordered dishes like Chinese garlic broccoli, mushroom fried rice, Shanghai noodles, breaded shrimps, and Caribbean fried chicken to add a bit of flair to the feast.  For festivity and variety, I also ordered from "Swiss Chalet," selecting their...

Celebrating Thanksgiving when you're not in the mood or are feeling isolated can be challenging and, indeed, a test of resilience. However, there are several meaningful ways to navigate these challenges and still find joy in the holiday. Gratitude Journal: Amidst the whirlwind of negative emotions, take a moment to reflect on the positives in your life. Writing in your gratitude journal is a great place to start. Here, you may jot down the things you're thankful for, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant they may appear to be. This practice can shift your focus from what's missing to what you have. Volunteer: Consider extending a helping hand to those less fortunate in your community. Volunteering at a local shelter or food bank provides vital assistance to others and can significantly boost your mood. This small act of kindness can remind you of the impact you can make in the world. Virtual Gatherings: If you find yourself physically distant from loved ones, embra...