For Mrs. Merle, Sophomore English teacher, this year’s Thanksgiving break was all about slowing down and enjoying time with the people she loves most. With her husband Brian taking the whole week off as well. The Merle household was a time period of uninterrupted family time an experience she described as “the highlight of my whole break.”

Unlike most years, the Merle family stayed local this year instead of traveling. It was their first Thanksgiving at home, and it turned out to be something special. Even without long-standing traditions, that week felt meaningful in its own way. One of the standout moments came on Thanksgiving Day itself, when Mrs. Merle and her family celebrated with Mrs. Stromberg and her family, making the holiday unforgettable. “We were lucky enough to spend such precious time with our chosen family,” she said.

Food also played a fun part in the break fun part in the break. While she enjoys the classic Thanksgiving dishes, Mrs. Merle didn’t hesitate to name her favorite: sushi. “Sushi will always be my favorite,” she laughed. “I had it twice!” She even experimented in the kitchen, trying a new way to cook sweet potatoes, which she said turned out “delicious!”

When it came to relaxing Mrs. Merle kept is simple: quality time with the people she cares most about. “Anytime I got to spend with Brian and the kids was the best,” she said. One moment that especially made her smile was Black Friday shopping with her husband, a memory she calls one of the highlights of the entire week.

While the break was refreshing returning to school felt just as good. “SO good!” Mrs. Merle said with a grin. “I love this group of kids I missed them!”

For Mrs. Merle, Thanksgiving 2025 wasn’t about travel or perfect plans, it was about connection comfort and being surrounded by the people who mean the most.