Campfire Chat: Gravy, Gratitude, and a Bit of Batman
If November had a soundtrack, mine would be a quiet loop of small thank-yous, soft tail wags, and the shuffle of someone else making the coffee first. (Thanks, babe.)
It’s Thanksgiving week, and yes, I know it’s the season of giving thanks — but lately, I’ve been trying to tune that mindset in year-round. Some days, it’s easier said than done. This past year had its heavy moments. But I’ve noticed that my brain — maybe out of sheer stubbornness or necessity — is catching more of the good stuff lately. Not just the big life shifts, but the tiny little glimmers too.
Let’s call it… a grateful playlist on in the background.
🎧 On in the Background
It’s the little things:
– My husband bringing me coffee in bed every single day (I know, I know — he’s a keeper).
– Our giant dogs trying to become lap dogs.
– A call from an dear friend.
– A really good book.
And it’s the big stuff too:
– My mom, who continues to show up for us in ways I’ll never stop being thankful for.
– A new client who’s also become a genuine friend.
– Our kids becoming thoughtful, strong, hilarious young adults.
– Field Trip turning one year old!
– My husband, who somehow manages to be both my soft place to land and my get-up-and-go.
It’s not always easy to see clearly when the days get fast and the news gets heavy. But when I pause long enough to really look — really listen — what I notice most is just… enough.
A grateful heart really is a happy heart. I hope you find yours full this season — and that it stays that way long after the leftovers are gone.
🕯 Inside the Tent
We’ve been putting together our annual Holiday Gift Guide, and this year we chose a few of our favorite things, all picked with intention and outdoor lovers in mind.
One of the standouts? The Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System — a total game-changer for campsite cooking. And guess what? We’re giving one away!
Check out the full guide and enter the giveaway.
📍 Pinned to the Map
I’m still dreaming of Cody, Wyoming. This town is magic. It’s a quirky little gateway to Yellowstone that somehow blends wild landscapes with cozy, creative charm.
🧵 Thread I’m Pulling
A study I just read stopped me in my tracks: apparently, people are kinder when Batman is around. Yup. Researchers found that just seeing something out of the ordinary (like someone dressed as the Dark Knight) made people more aware of their surroundings — and more likely to help others.
It’s not about aspiring to be a hero… it’s about paying attention.
And honestly? That’s probably why I love being outside so much. When I’m walking in the woods or sitting in the grass or riding my bike (not nearly enough), I’m not just looking — I’m seeing. I notice more. I slow down. I tune in. I care more.
Maybe we don’t need a cape to make the world better. Maybe we just need to look up from our phones.
🏕 Basecamp
My husband has been practicing Tai Chi lately, and it’s been surprisingly moving to watch. His breath slows. His shoulders drop. It’s like you can see the stress melt.
I get that same feeling from yoga — or at least, I used to. I haven’t made much time for it lately, and watching him has me thinking it’s time to return to the mat. Sometimes, rest looks like movement.
🎒 Packing Out
Black Friday? Hard pass.
I’ve never liked the crowds or the chaos, and no discount has ever tempted me enough to line up at 4 a.m.
But Opt Outside? Now that’s my kind of tradition.
Started by REI, it’s the idea that instead of shopping the day after Thanksgiving, we head outdoors. REI closes every store and pays its employees to go enjoy nature. And the idea has caught on — some state parks (like here in South Carolina) even offer free entrance to encourage people to get outside.
Now that’s a movement I’ll follow all day.
🌲 Thanks for being part of this wild little corner of the internet. Whether you’re cozy at home, road-tripping somewhere beautiful, or just sneaking five quiet minutes to yourself — I hope this season brings you peace, presence, and something warm in your mug.
