Thanksgiving has a special kind of magic- the smells of home-cooked meals, the warmth of family gatherings, and the quiet reminder to pause and be thankful. But when you’re pregnant as a surrogate, the holiday can take on a deeper meaning. You’re carrying a life that isn’t your own, giving another family something truly extraordinary to be thankful for and that alone is something worth celebrating.

Still, being pregnant during Thanksgiving means you’ll probably experience the day a little differently. Between food cravings, tired feet, and a belly that might make sitting at the dinner table an adventure, it’s important to give yourself permission to slow down. Let someone else handle the heavy lifting (literally). If you’re used to cooking or hosting, this might be the perfect year to delegate or keep things simple. Your body is working hard, and it deserves a break.

Then there’s the food, which can be the best and sometimes most challenging part of the holiday. Most Thanksgiving dishes are perfectly safe, but it’s a good idea to steer clear of undercooked meats, unpasteurized cheeses, and certain desserts that might sneak in alcohol or raw eggs. That doesn’t mean you have to miss out, though. With a few tweaks, you can still enjoy your favorite sides and sweets. And if your appetite isn’t what it usually is, that’s okay too. Eat what feels good, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.

More than anything, take time to reflect on the meaning of this season. Gratitude looks a little different when you’re a surrogate. You’re part of something bigger, helping create joy, love, and family for someone else. That’s not just something to be thankful for, it’s something to be proud of.

So this Thanksgiving, as you rest your hands on your growing belly and breathe in the scent of pumpkin pie, remember this: you’re giving someone the greatest gift imaginable. And that makes you a part of a story that’s worth celebrating every single day.