Being Thankful

Happy Thanksgiving!

Today is such a wonderful day to reflect on what we all have to be thankful for (and we all do have something even if you don't think you do).

Today we are going to Granny and Pa's house to celebrate family. I made dirt cake last night and Jay made deviled eggs. Jay has been like a little kid, he is so excited. Tomorrow is shopping (thanks Aunt Denise and Gigi for babysitting). Saturday is some wonderful time with good friends and Sunday is another day of thanks with my family at my mom and dad's. I can honestly say - you can't beat our week.

All things considering, with my job, the auto industry, and a bunch of other life issues - I am so very thankful. I was talking with a colleague (wont have those for long) this past week about what he does for the thanksgiving holiday. He is estranged from both his parents and does nothing. He is only in his mid-twenties. His mom left years ago and he and his dad only talk every few months. He has been on his own for years and usually just finds a friend to hang with. It broke my heart for so many reasons. He is so successful and a great person - his parents are missing out on that. I simply cannot comprehend not having family to spend the holidays with. Of course, I invited him to all our functions including last week's Facciolla Thanksgiving. He graciously declined.

I guess it just shows that no matter what - family is important. As annoying as some can be, the little habits that we all have that rub on one another - there is nothing like knowing you have family. I cannot understand the arguing or bitterness some families have. I know that sometimes the hurt runs too deep to fix. All I know is that I never want that for myself, for my husband, or children.

Thank you to my family and Jay's family. We all have our "stuff" but we make it work. What it boils down to is that we simply - love. We choose to love more than we choose not to. That is all that really matters anyway.

Thank you to our wonderful friends. You realize when life gets tough that the true friends stick by you. They love you with your flaws, moods and occasional irrational drama. Jay and I are so blessed to have you in our life.

Thank you to my husband. You are THE love of my life, best friend, and father anyone could ever ask for. I simply do not understand what I did to deserve you but am so grateful you think I do.

Thank you to my boys. They are the real reason for anything I am or do. Before I had kids, I would listen to other moms talk. Even my own mom would tell me things I just did not "get". The love is so overwhelming and wonderful. It is hard work but so worth it. I totally "get" it now and am so thankful that I have been able to experience this part of life.

Love one another today and always. Have a great thanksgiving, find good deals at the stores and don't worry about calories. Life is too short and this weekend is just one of the reasons life can be so great!