Canadian Thanksgiving has come and gone for another year. My many US friends are preparing now to settle down with friends and family to their annual harvest of Thanksgiving.
I am reminded yet again that I have much to be thankful for. My family and loving husband, friends to be comfortable with, a bountiful harvest from our garden, freedom to be who I am, clean air and water, small things that still make me laugh, my health and a life I am content with.
I’m thankful for friends who have passed thru my life and yet are no longer here with me. I think I live a balanced life and stop to appreciate the smaller things along the way. Yet, the sudden and tragic loss of a friend and her unborn son earlier this year has given me pause.
My friend Jill loved life, her family, her pet and her adoring husband. She loved history, especially Gettysburg and hot air balloons which reminded her of her late father. She loved to craft, and was whimsical and detailed in making beautiful greeting cards. She made a beautiful baby scrapbook for another friend of mine. I miss her everyday.
But, because she was my friend she has taught me much and her early passing has made me dig a little deeper and
Hug my spouse a bit more often and just a little bit harder
Call my sisters and tell them I love them, not just dash off a quick email
Not let the little things bother me so quickly or quite so much – who really cares that the cupboard doors in the kitchen always seem to be left open
I am thankful to have known her.
To all my US friends, have a laughter filled, warm and wonderful Thanksgiving with friends and family. And, stop and take the time to remember what and why you are thankful.
theoldbarndoor 