Where Gratitude Lives On: Our Thanksgiving at Morning Light

It was a beautiful reminder that even in the midst of life’s most tender chapters, there is still so much light to be shared.

Thanksgiving is one of those special moments at the Morning Light Home when our staff, residents, and their families come together to share more than just a meal. It is a time to pause, to be present with one another, and to celebrate the simple gift of time.

This year, we were once again blessed by our incredible volunteer Sylvester, a professional chef who generously offered his time, talent, and heart to prepare our Thanksgiving meal. Up before sunrise, Sylvester began cooking at 4 a.m., preparing turkey, ham, and all the cherished holiday favorites with care and love. He was joined by his wonderful friends from the L.D.S. church, who helped serve the meal with warmth and joy. Their kindness made a lasting impact on everyone in the room.

The dining room was filled with familiar, loved faces—Doug and Ruby among them—as well as new friends like Kevin and Vincent, all gathered together around the same table. As the sun dipped lower in the sky and the home filled with the glow of evening, a quiet warmth settled over the space. It was a moment filled with gratitude for the simplest and most meaningful gift of all: being together.

We are also deeply thankful for the many hands and hearts that helped make the meal so special. Stephanie Nichols kindly contributed delicious sides, our resident Doug shared his much-loved Peach Cobbler, and our friend Ben from Transitions Hospice brought beautiful pies—and wonderful company. Each dish carried more than flavor; it carried thoughtfulness, generosity, and care.

It was truly moving to see our residents enjoying the meal together in the dining room, while others were lovingly served room by room. Every plate delivered, every smile exchanged, reflected the compassion that defines life at Morning Light.

Alongside the joy of the holiday, we also held space for our loss. Sadly, two of our dear residents passed after that Thanksgiving week. We continue to hold their memory close and are grateful they were part of this meaningful moment in our home. Their lives and stories remain part of the Morning Light family forever. 

In the days before Thanksgiving, another extraordinary act of generosity reminded us just how deeply our community cares. Former board member and longtime friends of Morning Light, Julie and Matt Hurdle, organized a beautiful Client Appreciation / Pumpkin Pie Open House. Julie’s porch became a sea of kindness—overflowing with household essentials, pantry staples, and thoughtful donations for our residents. The impact of their generosity is still being felt throughout our home and were included in the meal.

Because of friends like Julie and Matt, and supporters like all of you, Morning Light is filled not only with needed supplies, but with comfort, dignity, and community.

As we reflect back on Thanksgiving, we do so with deep gratitude. For the food shared, the hands that served, the residents we celebrated, the memories we honored, and the love that surrounded our home, thank you for being part of this season with us.