‘Tis The Season For Thanks and Gratitude 🦃

How is it already November? On November 28th, we'll gather with friends and loved ones to express our thanks and gratitude as we indulge in a delicious Thanksgiving feast. Though eating turkey is an essential part of Thanksgiving for most Americans, the side dishes truly make the meal. In a survey conducted last fall, stuffing was the most popular side dish, followed by mashed potatoes and mac and cheese. Want to add a unique twist to your traditional side dish favorites? Check out these mouth-watering recipesand share your experience with us! Let us know which ones you tried and how they turned out.

National Family Caregivers Appreciation Month falls during November. About 37.1 million Americans selflessly provide unpaid care for older family members, often juggling other responsibilities such as work and caring for their children. Many of us will likely become caregivers or require care at some point in our lives. Though caregiving can be a rewarding experience, the ongoing demand can strain caregivers and impact their physical and mental health. It's essential that caregivers make their own wellness a priority. Eating a well-balanced diet, staying active, making time to relax, and keeping up with their own health appointments are all beneficial. Most importantly, caregivers shouldn't be afraid to ask for help. If you or a loved one is a caregiver, here's a list of resources and support groups to assist you in navigating this role.

Millions of Americans will vote on November 5th, voicing where they stand on local, state, and national issues. In honor of Election Day, here are some fun facts on how this day came to be:

• In 1845, Congress designated the Tuesday following the first Monday of November as Election Day. Tuesday was chosen because it gave voters time to travel to their polling places and didn't interfere with weekend religious services.
• November was considered an ideal month to hold elections because the U.S. was primarily an agricultural society in 1845. Harvest was typically completed by November for most farmers and was early enough in the season that winter storms weren't likely to keep voters from reaching the polls.
• Votes were initially cast publicly by voters raising their hands or speaking. By the mid-1800s, several states were using paper ballots. In 1888, Massachusetts became the first state to require secret ballots, a trend adopted by the rest of the states over the following three years.

On November 13th, make a positive difference for those around you in celebration of World Kindness Day. This day reminds us that committing small acts of kindness can have a powerful impact on our communities and beyond. Though every day is an opportunity to spread kindness, here are some ways you can honor the sentiment of this holiday: volunteer, offer to help a neighbor or stranger, donate to a charitable organization, or share positive messages with others on your social media.

During this season of thanks, we would like to express our sincere gratitude for your continued trust and partnership. As always, if there's anything we can help you with, please don't hesitate to reach out.  We hope you enjoy a restful and warm holiday season filled with family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving!