Friday, November 26, 2010

Giving Thanks

Yesterday was one of the most restful Thanksgivings I can remember. The last couple of holiday seasons have been difficult. Holidays have always meant family time together, wild and noisy, and our little Southern California sector of the family just seemed to get smaller and smaller. On more than one occasion, I've found myself thinking, "This isn't what I thought it would be." The picture in my head and heart has always been of children and grandchildren gathering together, and in today's world, that just isn't possible very often.

But a new holiday feeling is emerging. Our family circle has expanded to include my stepsister and her husband, who have not often been there to celebrate with us. What started out uncomfortable is now becoming pleasant. It's like new life has been injected into our family group. We all had such a good time this Thanksgiving. (Mom maybe less so, as she washed all the pans.) This was the first year in a long time that we all sat down at the Thanksgiving table together, not spread across two rooms. The grandchildren were respectful of the holiday feeling, pretty good manners at the table, eager to have their part in the holiday. The food was really good, and I think everyone felt appreciated.

A real Thanksgiving memory was established. Thanks, Mom, for having all of us. It will be wonderful when some of the rest of you can join us. Other than that, I wouldn't change a thing.

I can't wait for Christmas!

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