Throughout the holidays I will think of my family. Those near and far. Those I see often and those I can not. Those I have not yet met, but so long to do so. Those who have gone before me and that I miss dearly. Those I will never have the opportnity to know.
I am thankful for all of you who have taken me into your hearts, and for letting me into yours. I am so grateful for this large family I have been given!!
Thanksgiving! It is a holiday I have always adored!Who doesn't enjoy the food, family and time to give thanks to all that is important?
As a kid, this was a fun holiday that we spent with our immediate relatives. I enjoyed playing with my cousins and being in the happy warmth of family. We would set up board games and play for hours while the aroma of food was in the air. Those were carefree times! These past two years I have really approached this day as it is intended- to give thanks to all that I have to be thankful for.
 |
| My sons are always in the forefront of my thoughts |
I loved the holdiays being with my three cousins. As an only child, I was often left wishing I had siblings. Being with my cousins filled my time. Perhaps that is why I always wanted a large family of my own. I enjoy watching my sons, now young men, interacting with each other. When on the rare occasions all agree and get along it's a beautiufl thing! There are times, I'm sure, that they probably wish they had the peace and quiet the life of an only child brings. If they could only know how much I would give to have a holiday as they do. What a dream it is for me to sit at a table with my four sisters and brother and have my mothers (both of them!), father, Diana and Steven all together at one time . I hope as they grow older and wiser they will understand how lucky they are two be part of this group of four brothers.
 |
| My four handsome sons - Nick, Tom, Tony and Jarett |
I am particularly sappy and thankful during this time between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Christmas was always a favorite for me as it a joy for me to decorate the house, bake and cook for the holidays. I love making big platters filled with baked goods and enjoy sharing them with family and friends. I love our Christmas day routine of the boys opening stockings first while Tony and I cook a big breakfast. The boys will sort through the pile of gifts under the tree and organize them. We each will take turns opening our gifts so we can all see what the other has received. I know this is not how many households will open their presents, but for us it has worked well. I can truly see the joy on their faces with each gift. Oh, I know what you are thinking- Christmas is not about gifts alone! It is a holy and important day. I know this too, but I enjoy the gift giving part.
Throughout the holidays I will think of my family. Those near and far. Those I see often and those I can not. Those I have not yet met, but so long to do so. Those who have gone before me and that I miss dearly. Those I will never have the opportnity to know.
I am thankful for all of you who have taken me into your hearts, and for letting me into yours. I am so grateful for this large family I have been given!!
I am truly blessed!
 |
| taken the day after Thanksgiving, 2011 |
