Today's the day. Gratitude is flowing like a river over on the Facebook. As I reveled in the positivity and grace that filled my newsfeed I found myself wondering what our world might be like if these were the words on our lips every day.
To quote a friend, may every day be an occasion to be thankful.
Today, though-- it did merit more than its fair share.
So much bounty today. A house full of family, a long table filled with food and conversation, rooms warm and soft with voices and laughter. More desserts than we could handle. Grown cousins sharing memories, young ones making new ones. It felt good to be back in Grandma Gertie's house -- now Aunt Pat's house, updated and refurnished but still in so many ways the house of childhood visits, of hours spent playing with toys in the magical coat closet (the light turned on by itself when you opened the door! imagine!)-- eating trail bologna and chatting easily with my Strasburg family. I may be partial but these are some of the best people I know in the world. Kind, caring, funny and blunt. You never have to worry about pretense with my family; what you see is what you get-- and it is all wonderful. I loved watching Jack and Ivy get to know everyone. They were at ease instantly. Even Ivy, who has not been here since she was 6 weeks old, said as we walked in, "I remember this house!"
The only sad part of today was the knowledge that it has been 3 years since our last visit.
No excuse for that.
We've vowed to not let it happen again.
So tonight I am thankful for family, thankful to be a part of this group. Thankful for all their welcoming hearts, for our shared memories. Thankful for the chance for Jack and Ivy to play hide and seek with the next generation of cousins, to form their own new family bonds.
I am thankful for this day, for good health and good roads and a pretty, crispy, snow-covered afternoon. I am grateful for a quiet walk through the Strasburg streets. I am grateful for good food and good company and a quiet evening at home watching Dr. Who. I am grateful for this day and the richness that is my life.
May we all keep this spirit of gratitude in our hearts, every day.
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