CENTRAL, Texas — There is so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving and Central Texans couldn't agree more.
Texas Today took to the streets to hear what people are thankful for this year. Here's what they had to say:
"I'm thankful for friends, " one Central Texan said.
"I'm thankful I got to be 70," another Central Texan said.
"I'm thankful for kind people and thankful to God," Another person added.
How can you show gratitude or thankfulness?
I (Meredith) would like to insert my opinion for one moment so I can share what I'm thankful for.
When I think about the small things, like something nice someone said, my cat or my family, I get a little more happy.
The simple fact that I am here in Central Texas and have the chance to learn from and communicate important information to this community means so much to me.
I'm also thankful for my amazing family in Pennsylvania and everywhere else in this country.
Here's what the Texas Today team is grateful for:
"I'm grateful for everything, life, family, a place to stay and heat," Texas Today Producer Ryan Fite said.
Fite then added that he's also grateful for friends.
"I'm thankful for my career, cats and iced matcha lattes," Creative Producer and Morning Munchies extraordinaire Dominic Gonzalez said.
"I am thankful for my children, husband and each every one of the people on Texas Today because you made me remember why I love what I do," Texas Today Executive Producer Kennedra McDonald said.
"I'm thankful for my family, my job and my health," Texas Today Anchor Jasmin Caldwell said.
"I'm thankful for my family and getting to spend time together," Texas Today Meteorologist Whitney Huddelston said.
Did you know November is National Gratitude Month?
With that in mind, it's important to know what gratitude can do for you in your life.
According to a 2022 study by Penn State they found that increasing the amount of gratitude in our daily lives is a wonderful way to improve mental and physical health, job satisfaction, and overall happiness.
Other ways you can be thankful and show gratitude according to PsychCentral:
1. Write a letter
Gratitude letters can be incredibly beneficial for the person writing them, as well as the recipient.
2. Be an active listener
With so many things demanding your attention, it’s easy to slip into the habit of only half-listening to your loved ones.
3. Take a mindful walk
“Stop and smell the roses” might sound like a cliche, but there’s real truth in how helpful getting outside can be, especially for mental health.
4. Give a thoughtful gift
Gifts aren’t always the best way to express feelings, and they’re certainly no substitute for honest communication.
5. Start a gratitude journal
Expressive writing through journaling can help to process negative events and emotions, but it can also help you to hone in on the positives in your life.
Where can you find free Thanksgiving meals today?
Feed My Sheep in Temple, Texas.
When: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Where: 116 W Avenue G, Temple, TX 76504
La Palapa Mexican Grill in Killeen, Texas.
When: 9:30 a.m.
Where: Keep an eye on their Facebook for their location, as it varies day by day.