Pies, Parades & Peace

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Welcome back to Chalkboard Chatter, where life, learning, fashion, family, and faith meet at the microphone. In this special Thanksgiving edition, I take listeners through a warm and joy-filled holiday weekend that blended community, celebration, rest, and spiritual renewal.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

From savoring holiday pies at an Aspen Restaurant gathering, to cheering at the Detroit Thanksgiving Parade, to sipping cocoa beneath the glowing Christmas tree at Campus Martius Park—this episode feels like a cozy scarf wrapped around your shoulders. We journey north to Frankenmuth for relaxation, recharging, and a three-course feast at Zehnder’s, followed by a crisp walk across the Holz-Brücke wooden bridge.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Then it’s time to get those steps in at Laurel Park Place mall, because what’s a long weekend without a little shopping and a lot of laughter? And even as snow blanketed the city, faith called. The weekend culminated in a beautiful Sunday service at Kingdom Builders Christian Church, where I taught on Isaiah 40:12-17 and reflected on God’s immeasurable greatness. This episode celebrates intentional rest, gratitude, togetherness, and the small but sacred moments that fill our hearts during the holiday season. Grab a mug of something warm—let’s chat!

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

There’s something magical about the moment the holiday season officially begins, not with a date on the calendar, but with the warmth of familiar faces. For me, it all kicked off at Jennifer Caira Lauff’s holiday party.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

As soon as I walked into Aspen Restaurant, the aroma of cinnamon, sugar, and butter floated through the air like a festive welcome mat. Jennifer, who has managed four of my home transactions with the precision of a seasoned conductor, greeted me with a smile that could thaw any Michigan chill. And then came the pies. I’m convinced Jennifer has a secret pie supplier blessed by the culinary angels themselves.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Each one had a buttery, flaky crust and fillings so rich you couldn’t help but close your eyes and savor every bite. But even sweeter than the pies was the conversation, catching up, reminiscing about past home-buying adventures, and laughing about the “remember when” moments that only real estate veterans truly understand. As I left the party, pie in hand and heart full, it felt like the perfect prologue to a Thanksgiving weekend that would be equal parts festive, reflective, and restorative. And little did I know, the next chapter would take me straight into the heart of Detroit’s holiday charm.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

The next morning, the energy of the Detroit Thanksgiving Parade buzzed through the air like confetti. Crowds gathered in hats and mittens, children perched on shoulders, everyone buzzing with anticipation.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Watching the floats roll by, each more whimsical than the last, made me feel like a kid again. There’s something beautiful about thousands of people pausing life for a moment of collective joy. After the parade, we headed down to the Cadillac Lodge, where the smell of hot cocoa wrapped around us like a warm hug.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

We found a cozy spot, hands wrapped around steaming cups, letting the chocolatey sweetness melt the morning chill. And then we wandered toward Campus Martius Park, where the Christmas tree glowed with enough lights to rival the night sky. Standing beneath it, I felt that familiar spark, hope, gratitude, and the certainty that the holiday season had officially arrived. As the tree shimmered above us, we transitioned from the busyness of the parade into a calmer, more reflective rhythm, ready for the restful adventures that awaited us in Frankenmuth.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

As an educator, I’ve learned that rest is not optional; it’s essential. So heading up to Frankenmuth for some post-parade rejuvenation felt like the perfect retreat. The River Place Shops were charming as ever, each storefront decorated in twinkling lights, each corner offering its own little pocket of joy.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

But the crown jewel was Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth. My husband and I sat down to a three-course meal that felt like something out of a Thanksgiving dream: warm rolls, perfectly seasoned dishes, and desserts that required absolutely no justification. It was indulgent, comforting, and exactly what my teacher-tired soul needed. On 11/28, we walked across the Holz-Brücke, the iconic wooden bridge that stands like a gateway to tradition.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

The crisp air, the sound of footsteps on timber, the quiet moments shared between us, it all grounded me. It reminded me that rest isn’t just sleeping or pausing; it’s choosing to be present, choosing to breathe. Leaving Frankenmuth, I felt lighter, restored, and ready to enjoy the final stretch of the long weekend.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

And somewhere amid all the weekend excitement, I made sure to carve out a little time for one of my absolute passions: musicals. My mother and I went to see Wicked Part 2, and let me tell you, as a lifelong musical lover, my heart was soaring from the very first note. Sharing that experience with her made it even more special, like our own little tradition wrapped in glitter and harmony. It was one of those moments that remind you just how magical storytelling can be when it’s set to music.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

After enjoying delicious meals and meaningful moments, we decided to get our steps in at Laurel Park Place Mall. You know that satisfying rhythm of walking, talking, browsing, and laughing?

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

That’s exactly the kind of movement my body and heart needed. We lapped around the mall like seasoned mall walkers, pausing at store windows filled with holiday décor that called our names. And yes, we shopped. Holiday gifts were checked off the list one by one, with the joyful realization that December stress would be just a little lighter thanks to our productivity.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

There’s nothing like finding the perfect gift and imagining the smile on someone’s face when they receive it. As our bags grew fuller, we transitioned from the hustle of retail therapy into the spiritual stillness that awaited us on Sunday.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Even though the snowstorm tried its best to keep us indoors, our hearts were set on worship. We bundled up, braved the weather, and made our way to Kingdom Builders Christian Church.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

The sanctuary glowed with warmth, community, and reverence. I had the privilege of teaching Sunday school on Isaiah 40:12–17, a passage that magnifies the incomparable greatness of God. Standing before the class, reflecting on the One who measures oceans in the hollow of His hand, I felt humbled and renewed.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

It was a powerful reminder that no matter how busy our lives become, no matter the storms—literal or figurative, God remains sovereign, steady, and near. As the weekend came to a close, I felt deep gratitude. Thanksgiving wasn’t just a date this year; it was a journey. A journey of pies, parades, peaceful moments, purposeful rest, and the presence of God woven into every step.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Before we wrap up, we’d love for you to join the conversation. If today’s episode warmed your heart or brought a smile to your day, don’t forget to like, share, and comment. Your engagement helps us reach even more listeners who crave real stories, real teachers, and real-life inspiration.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Share this episode with a friend who loves the holidays, tag someone who needs a little encouragement, or drop a comment about your favorite Thanksgiving moment. We can’t wait to hear from you.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

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