Editor’s Letter November 2023

What’s not to love about an entire month that invites you to celebrate being thankful, culminates in a savory meal shared with friends and family, and springboards into the Christmas season? It sounds so idyllic—and it is. Mostly. Along the way, we all too often have to navigate less-than-grateful attitudes, a never-ending to-do list and unrealistic expectations of yourself as well as others. I hope KC Parent can help you focus on the sweet blessings of family life during this busy month.

I do enjoy all the cooking and baking. My mom is a terrific cook, as are many in my extended family, but there came a time when we were navigating food allergies that I chose to learn to make all the dishes that were otherwise ruled out by our family’s gluten intolerance. I started making pies and gravy, something that sounds so simple to those unintimidated by such feats. It took a while, though, to find my confidence, and now I look forward to it—and my son David and daughter Rachel have become my go-to pie helpers. Together we craft many delicious options, and this year we’re working on our lattice game. I dare say one of our favorite parts of Thanksgiving is pie and ice cream for breakfast the days following. It is simply bread, fruit and dairy—yes?

Laura Ingalls Wilder once said, “There is good in everything, if only we look for it.” See this story for ideas celebrating this favorite regional author. And for a creative idea to document your thankfulness and invite your family to do the same, consider an A-to-Z list. Be encouraged, too, by my dear friend Nancy’s adoption story.

As the pace picks up, as the prices tick up and as the expectations unfold, may you pause to savor the tangible and intangible blessings that truly abound!

Have a wonderful November and a happy Thanksgiving, Kansas City!