Thanksgiving and Birthdays: A Special Mashup in Myrtle Beach
As the sun sets on another beautiful November day in Myrtle Beach, many of us are gearing up for the double dose of celebration that this year brings. If you’re like me, you might be feeling extra festive as my birthday, November 28, coincides with the Thanksgiving holiday this year. It’s a rare and delightful occurrence that only happens every six years or so, and let me tell you, it makes for a fascinating blend of turkey and cake!
Birthday Memories
Reflecting on my past birthdays, I can’t help but smile at the memories, especially one particular year when I was in college. My clever mom surprised me with a turkey-shaped chocolate birthday cake. Who knew those two celebrations could be combined so deliciously? It was an unforgettable moment!
Turning 49 with Gratitude
This year marks my last trip around the sun before turning the big 5-0 on my next birthday. It’s a bit bittersweet, but hey—they say 50 is the new 30, right? So, before diving headfirst into this exciting transition, I want to take a moment and reflect on the many, many things I’m grateful for over the past decade.
Welcoming Baby Xander
One of the biggest highlights of my 40s was welcoming my third son, Xander, into the world. Born on January 27, 2016, he completed our family of five. Each of my sons is a precious gift, and with Xander being a “geriatric pregnancy” at my age, holding him in my arms felt like a remarkable achievement. I’m so very thankful for my three healthy boys who continuously fill my heart with joy.
Finding Our Home Sweet Home
Fast forward to July 2019, after years of renting, my husband and I finally purchased our first home. Let me tell you—it was like finding a hidden treasure! It’s perfectly located in a neighborhood where the boys can easily play with their friends just down the street. Each of my boys even got their own bedrooms! Timing couldn’t have been better, as we bought the house just before the pandemic hit. I’m so grateful that we could lunker down in our cozy abode during those uncertain times and that Covid-19 didn’t touch us. Talk about a blessing!
A Dream Come True: My First Book
2024 is shaping up to be a big year! I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be publishing my first book, “100 Things to Do in Myrtle Beach Before You Die,” on February 1. After more than 25 years working as an editor and writer and living here for two decades, this milestone truly encapsulates my journey. Capturing 160 pages of cherished places and activities has been a cathartic experience, though it did test my anxiety and my endurance. Who knew writing a book could be such a rollercoaster?
Celebrating Love
April 22, 2024, will mark another important milestone for my husband and me as we celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary with a trip to Key West. I cannot express how incredibly thankful I am for my husband, Bradley. He’s truly my best friend, confidante, and soulmate—an amazing father. My 40s have been filled with laughter and love, thanks to him, and I can’t wait to make more memories together as we journey through life.
Thankfulness All Around
So, as I prepare for another birthday mixed with Thanksgiving festivities, I remind myself that the real celebration is in the gratitude we share with loved ones. If you’re in Myrtle Beach this season, take a moment to soak it all in—family, friends, and memories that make every holiday special. Here’s to counting our blessings, one cake slice at a time!
