It's almost Thanksgiving. Oh the different things this holiday brings. Have you put your tree up yet? Have you started decorating? Are you already listening to Christmas music? Pause. Isn’t there a question missing here? A holiday missing?
How are you celebrating your gratitude? Have you stopped to count your many blessings?
I'm looking forward to this holiday, and doing different things this time around. With each passing year, I become more grateful for my parents and all that they did to make our family what it is now.
This year, we are driving up to Chicago. I haven't done Thanksgiving with my parents in a while, and it's way past time. Dana's brother, Seth, will be joining us - as well as the kids and grandkids. Sometimes, too many people adds to the stress; but at Thanksgiving, they are all simply more reasons to be thankful.
I love how warm and comforting it ends up being around family. But it's not always easy. There will be challenges. We are real. We talk about stuff, sometimes even yell at one another. But at our core, we love each other.
And as each year passes, I try and remember that the group make-up may change. So, I want to take full advantage of the time together. I want to make and preserve memories. I don't want the time to pass with any regrets. These are my people, and I want them to know they are precious to me.
See, I often get a little mushy at Thanksgiving. But it's deliberate. I don't want to miss a single opportunity where my family is concerned.
I hope that you can find similar gems during your holiday season.
To you, with gratitude,
John