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Every Little Thing by April Jeppson

It’s November in Minnesota, and it’s that weird time of year where Mother Nature can’t make up her mind. You never know if you’ll wake up to a crisp morning fog, a few stubborn leaves hanging on the trees or a delicate layer of frost covering everything. The weather has a personality all its own — it’s quirky and spontaneous, just like me.

Weather quirks aside, November has its ups. Halloween was this week, and if you’re a mom of teens like me, it’s impossible not to feel a bit nostalgic. My older two had arranged to meet up with friends, leaving the youngest to walk around with me. There was a time when I felt fortunate to have my husband take the kids door to door while I got to remain back at the house. I’m so happy that all my children love dressing up and going trick-or-treating.

However, this year felt different, and it hit me that they are growing up, and I may not be invited to join them next year. So I jumped at the chance to freeze with my “little” one. Watching her collect candy reminded me of all the Halloweens past.

I told her the story of her older brother’s first Halloween experience. He insisted on wearing this cat costume (for weeks afterwards as well), and loved the fact that he learned magical words. He knew that he could say ‘twik o tweet’ to anyone, and they would give him candy. I mean, as a 3-year-old, that is absolute magic. So as I watched my 10-year-old go from door to door, I took it in. I didn’t let the cold cut our evening short because frankly I wanted that moment to last as long as it could.

At work, I’m blessed to be surrounded by passionate people who truly want to make a difference in our community. Sometimes, it’s all facility repairs, meetings and fundraising, which can be a roller coaster of its own. But each time I feel overwhelmed, I remember why I started. Whether it’s helping our seniors feel a little less lonely or keeping our youth programs thriving, this work is important. There’s something grounding about giving back, and I’m grateful to be in a position where I can make a positive impact.

Even on the most challenging days, I’m reminded to focus on the good things in life — the little victories. Like when I actually manage to get my kids to agree on the same movie for family night or when we all get through the week with smiles intact. Those moments are gold. Or when a community member approaches me to discuss their financial gift. Pure bliss.

So, as November settles in, I’m holding tight to the little things — the gorgeous color of the changing leaves or my kids dressing up to get candy from the neighbors. I’m grateful for this season and all it brings, for our funny, kind-hearted children, for work that gives back and for the reminder that no matter how chilly or unpredictable it gets out there, the warmth of family and community can keep us all going strong.

After all, if we can survive a Minnesota November with full hearts and a spirit of gratitude, we can survive just about anything.

Albert Lean April Jeppson is a wife, mom, coach and encourager of dreams. Her column appears every Saturday.