Thanksgiving 2011

It's really amazing to think of all the changes that have occurred in only a few years. I remember the 'first' Thanksgiving Kristie and I had. She actually had to work so I went to my sister's house to have dinner. Mom and Dad were both alive then. Mom made sure that I took a plate of food for Kristie.

Now as we gather at Barb and Arnie's today, it will be a small affair. I was telling Kristie that it is shocking when I think of all the people that were regulars for Thanksgiving and Christmas get togethers who are no longer with us: Mom and Dad; Jake (Arnie's brother); Bernard (Arnie's father); Eunice (Arnie's grandmother). In additon, we have also lost Kristie's uncle Allen and now her aunt Cheryl.

While there have been incredible losses, there have been incredible additions too: Kenzie and Cash. Also, Evan (Sean and Amanda's son). They are spending Thanksgiving at Sean's parents' house - and that is one reason this Thanksgiving will be smaller than usual. We hope to bring Kristie's mother, Gail, to Barb and Arnie's today too.

So I am thankful that despite the losses, there are additions that enrich our lives more than ever.

What am I thankful for?

Above all, my family -

Kristie - who is beautiful, intelligent, and caring. She is my best friend, and she inspires me every day. It's a cliche, I know, but she makes this house a home and my existence a life. I couldn't make it a moment without her. Nor would I ever want to.

Casey - who is home from the cities for a stint. His humor and good nature have added much to our home as of late.

KoKo - who is more like my real daughter than Kenzie may ever be. For her free spirit and her very innocent nature. She lights up this house.

Kenzie - who is every bit her mother's daughter. Her big heart and her pizzazz never fail to amaze.

Cash - who, with his two bottom teeth, thinks he is just too cute. And he is. When he snuggles into my shoulder, it is one of the best feelings in the world.

Gail - who gives and gives and gives. She is selfless and only thinks of others, especially her grand kids. May we all be as thoughtful as she is.

Ed and Lori - who will be up and who will see Cash for the first time. For their support and love. The kids treasure Lori's crafts, and we all treasure Ed's smart remarks and humor. If they only lived closer!

And I am thankful for all the past Thanksgivings I had with Mom and Dad. And for finding this photo. Every time I look at it, I see a hint of my mother in Kenzie. I can't tell you how thankful I am for that.