Hello! I took the week off to be with family and attempted to schedule this post for the week of Thanksgiving – it’s a little late, but the thoughts are true for the upcoming holidays. I hope you had a great holiday with friends and family!
REI’s retail decision to #OptOutside and be closed for Black Friday resonated with what I have been feeling about the onslaught of ads and gimmicks from everything and everybody on the Internet. Almost every blog and online article I read has tags and links for where I can buy product. I am weary of the fevered “Buy Me” presence online that’s wrapped in a shiny, overly white and bright sales pitch. I’m tired of words and phrases like “swoon worthy” “dreamy” “must haves” “ultimate gift guide” and “essentials” to name a few.
This holiday season, let’s give ourselves and our loved ones a breather. Take at least one day this Thanksgiving and opt for time with your family and friends. The shopping feeding frenzy is gross and does nothing to feed your soul.
I hope you had a fun, thoughtful Thanksgiving and appreciate time spent with your family and friends. Step away from the retail noise for a while. It will always be there to welcome you back.

Love all the words, and the picture especially. I like the ideas you presented and the emphasis on family. Keep up the good work.
Thanks very much!