Giving Thanks

Well, tomorrow is the big day--Thanksgiving.

Turkey, potatoes, gravy, cranberries, greenbean casserole, sweet potatoes, rolls, pumpkin pie, all the trimmings; family, laughter, story telling, doggies begging for food, the big football game, kids running around the house playing, and adults sacked out on the couch. It's a busy and memorable day; my favorite holiday.

Tomorrow will mark the first time in thirty-four years that I have not gathered the family together and prepared the big feast. This year is different. Everyone is scattered around the country and affected by this lackluster economy. It's hard to make it home. Then, there's my sweet daughter who is battling an ongoing condition that has just added pneumonia to its latest arsenol of attack against her body. The conditions are just not right for a big family celebration this year.

No, they are not.

Maybe next year we will resume the tradition. In the meantime, I will celebrate at home tomorrow with my husband and two Yorkies. And, I will quietly give thanks for all I have, all that will be, and for those I love and treasure, both family and friends.

Then, after quiet reflection of it all, I will give thanks that the rest of you have two big loads of dishes to wash while I put my feet up and relax. Life is still good.

Happy Thanksgiving to all.