I have to be honest, I wasn't exactly looking forward to Thanksgiving this year. Every year the paternal side of my family gathers at the Knights of Columbus hall (as all good Catholics do, of course!) in Beloit for a big mish-mash of turkey, stuffing, pies, and conversation.
It was always a decent time, and one of the only times during the year that my huge, extended Irish Catholic family got together.
Last Thanksgiving was solemn, despite our best efforts. Grandma had just died the month before and her absence was a stark reminder of how much it had changed our family. It was never going to be the same, and some of the magic and happiness of the holidays had left with her.
So, this year we're trying to get back to normal...or our new normal. Grandma's absence not only has left us saddened, but a bit unorganized as well. Who is bringing what, making what, what time? These were all the intricate details ironed out in advance by Grams. Now, it's up to us to kind of pick up the pieces and do with it what we will.
But, then I got to thinking....I do have a lot to be thankful for. This has been a trying year. Grandma died, I miscarried, ....our house nearly blew up. Honestly, I'm ready for the year to come to a close.
But, before that happens, I'd like to just reflect on what I am thankful for. Many little things, but a few big things that color my world and make every day, as my daughter would say, the "Best! Day! Ever!"
Betty Claire
I am beyond thankful for this little girl. She is my heart...walking around, talking, cracking jokes, making me and her father so very proud. I marvel at how quick she is. I am in awe of her on a daily basis. I cannot remember my life without her presence. Betty is the reason I do what I do, everyday.
The Husband
I have to give a virtual pat on the back to the Mister. He is endlessly supportive (even when he should probably tell me to sit down and take a break), he's the best father in the world to The Peanut, and...if I do say so myself...he's pretty handsome : ) I got lucky.
(photo courtesy of someone else using my camera)The Time.
I am eternally grateful for the 28 years I had with Grandma. I think about her every single day, I am still not "over" it, and I will mourn her passing for many years. But, I am to a point where I can be thankful that I had her, knew her, and that she made me part of who I am as an adult. I am grateful she had a chance to meet my daughter, to see me become a mother.
The stars aligned....and I lost my job right when I should have...affording me the time to spend her last days making her laugh...hopefully making her happy.
So I can look back on this year, despite the near misses with exploding houses and some sad circumstances and say I am thankful. I am thankful every single day that I have a job I love, a home I kinda like (but at least it's in one piece!), a husband I adore, and a daughter who is everything I could ever ask for in a kid.
Tomorrow, be thankful. Forget petty issues for one day and just think about what REALLY matters, whatever that may be to you. To me, it's my kid and my husband. The small world I've built for myself. The time I had, the memories I'm keeping, and the job I love.
Have a wonderful holiday, everyone!
How can you look at a picture like this and not fall in love with Wisconsin?
Special thanks to Crazy Water restaurant for letting us move your furniture around and interrupt your dinner prep!
