By Carol Tobler, Grateful Soul

Gratitude, on some level, has been a part of my life since my parents and church began teaching me as a small child. It was important to say “thank you” and to thank God for my many blessings. Scientific studies have taught us gratitude’s positive effects on our physical and psychological health: better sleep,
mental strength and empathy. It can reduce negative emotions and is an overlooked tool during difficult times.

I recently had an experience that reminded me of the power of gratitude. I lost my husband earlier this year after a long illness and I was ready for some family time on a 24/7 basis. I flew to Houston to spend a week with my daughter and her family and it was a wonderful time. On the plane trip going home, my mind started questioning if being back home would be too quiet or lonely for me.

Arriving back in Tulsa, just as I exited the airport, I saw Cliff (TW Transportation) pulling up to drive me back to Trinity Woods. My thoughts suddenly went back to the times Cliff had driven Ken for chemo treatments during Covid. I felt my anxiety slowly going away. As I was unlocking my front door, I
noticed a beautiful pot of mums sitting there as an expression of someone else’s gratitude. In the following days, I was receiving calls and texts from Trinity Woods members asking about my trip and welcoming me home. Others were extending invitations for lunch or some activity. It seemed that someone was reaching out every day and the quiet and loneliness were not insurmountable.

I’m still on my journey of healing from a great loss but I’m just where I need to be. Practicing gratitude is a daily must for this journey and I hope to reach new levels. The Trinity Woods’ staff and members are a caring and supportive community that are meeting my needs. I’m very grateful!

By: Amber Carson, MS, RD, LD – Trinity Woods Dietician

Winter holidays are full of festive feasts, but with a few smart swaps, you can enjoy the season without overindulging. Here’s a cheerful “Eat This, Not That” guide to help you stay energized and balanced through the holidays.

Eat This! – Veggie Tray with Hummus
Not That! – Cheese Cubes & Creamy Dips
Why? – Lower in saturated fat and calories

Eat This! – Fruit Salad or Baked Apples
Not That! – Pie With Whipped Cream
Why? – Natural Sweetness, Fewer Empty Carbs

Eat This! – Roasted Turkey or Chicken
Not That! – Glazed Ham or Prime Rib
Why? – Leaner Protein, Less Sodium

Eat This! – Greek Yogurt Parfaits
Not That! – Eggnog or Heavy Cream Desserts
Why? – Protein-Rich, Lighter Indulgence

Eat This! – Cauliflower Mash
Not That! – Butter-Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Why? – Lower Carb, Creamy Texture

Eat This! – Light Mulled Wine
Not That! – Heavy Cocktails
Why? – Lower Alcohol and Sugar Content

Bonus Tips:
Use smaller plates to help with portion control.
Don’t skip meals – eat a balanced breakfast to avoid overdoing it later.
Focus on the company and conversation, not just the food.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

November is a month that often invites us to slow down, gather around tables, and reflect on the many blessings God has given us. It is a time of year when our hearts are drawn toward gratitude, toward the goodness of God that sustains us, the faith that grounds us, the family that surrounds us, and the fellowship that strengthens us.

My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. However, it is not just a holiday; it is a spiritual posture to be adopted. True gratitude begins with faith; trusting that God is working for our good even when the path is not clear. Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

When we live by faith, gratitude flows naturally. We begin to see God’s hand in the everyday moments—the sunrise that greets us, the strength to face another day, the joy of laughter, and the peace that passes all understanding.

Our families, whether by blood, by choice, or by faith, are precious gifts from God. In Ephesians 4:2–3, Paul encourages us to “be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Family gatherings in November remind us that love is patient, forgiveness is powerful, and unity is worth nurturing. Even when families are not perfect, God uses them to shape us, teach us grace, and remind us we are not alone.

During this season, may we pause not only to count our blessings but also to express them to God, to our families, and to one another. A grateful heart sees the fingerprints of God in every detail of life.

Let us trust Him with unwavering faith, love and cherish our families, and stay connected through fellowship with one another. For it is in these places that thankfulness grows and God’s presence shines brightly.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and thankful November.