Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”
–William Arthur Ward
Ever forget? It happens to me. And that is why I have learned to value and appreciate little reminders. This is one of them.
All too often, it is all too easy, to be so consumed with the stuff of life that we “forget” to express our gratitude—or at least fail to do so in an authentic way. Our responses can sometimes become automatic, unintentionally habitual, and fall far short of the proper meaning that we intend.
This time of year is a wonderful time. It is a time to reflect on those things that we are so thankful for. We require a little time to focus on thankfulness so that we do not forget all that is good and right in our world. Thanksgiving, at its core, challenges us to view those around us with the deepest appreciation for the gifts they’ve given us. It is equally important to express our gratitude in a meaningful and authentic way. Our expression of thanks and appreciation must be sincere.
An old folk-tale proposes that the word “sincere” is derived from the Latin “sine” [meaning ‘without’] and “cera” [meaning ‘wax’]. Literally, without-wax. The explanation describes how dishonest sculptors in Rome or Greece would cover flaws in their work with wax to deceive the viewer. Therefore, a sculpture “without wax” would mean honesty in its perfection and that the work was authentic. And that is where our heart must lie as we express gratitude this season to those who… Love You, Challenge You, Serve You, Work with You, And…remember to show gratitude for yourself.
May you enjoy a season of thankfulness that is “without wax” in every way. Cheers to your health and your happiness this month. Thank you to all of you for all the rich blessings, kind words, and generous support that you offer me each and every day.
Todd
Finally, preparing for the holidays is all about spending quality time with friends and family. I am a firm believer that spending time and making memories does not have to be complicated. In fact, the exact opposite is true: keep it SIMPLE! To that end I would like to offer a simple, healthy, and delicious recipes that will enrich any gathering. Enjoy…
Perfect Pumpkin Muffins
[serves 12]
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup dark brown sugar,1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 2 eggs, 1-15 ounce can pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup coconut oil, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and place 12 paper liners into each well of your standard size muffin baking pan. Measure out the flour, sugars, baking soda, salt and spices in a medium bowl and whisk together. Set aside. Use a separate bowl to whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, coconut oil and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir together. Do not over mix, just stir until everything is incorporated into the batter. Distribute the batter evenly into each well. They will be nearly full. This will help give your muffins a nice puffy dome. Bake your muffins for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.