Growing up, Thanksgiving was my favorite holiday. My mom made a big deal out of it every year, inviting the entire extended family for a grand feast. The house was filled with the smell of roasted turkey, laughter, and way too many pumpkin pies. Those memories stayed with me, and when I married Megan, I wanted to carry on that tradition.

For the past seven years, Megan and I hosted Thanksgiving at our home. It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it. Megan cooks up a storm, I pitch in with setting the table and keeping Leo entertained, and the house buzzes with warmth and love. It’s chaotic, but in the best way.

This year, we decided to keep it small—just the three of us. Life’s been stressful lately with work deadlines, school activities for Leo, and the little things that pile up when you least expect them. On top of that, I’ve been working extra hours, hoping to secure a promotion, and I’ve missed countless little moments with Megan and Leo. A quiet Thanksgiving felt like the perfect way to reconnect.