Every year since we were small, my mother had us go around the table and say what we were thankful for -- some years it was as simple as "my family", "my friends", or "my health" -- some years it got silly or naughty, like the year one brother said he was thankful that another brother had broken up with a certain girl, or the year my niece, in all of her teen glory with an attitude to match, said that she was thankful that she'd gone away to boarding school.

 

As children we'd often roll our eyes at this tradition our mother loved, but now as I get older, I find myself more and more thankful and interested in what we all have to say.  My sons still love the tradition, not yet having the full eye roll attitude, and it nearly always makes me cry when I hear their little voices popping up at the table to say they're thankful for being with their grandparents who they adore or their older cousins who they worship. 

 

This Thanksgiving, be thankful.  Make the time to think about it, stop the action for a second and consider your children, a special friend, a spouse or a parent.  Treat yourself to an extra hug or a pat on the back about some part of your life you feel good about.  Whether you've had a good year or not, we all have a little something to find that's positive.  Embrace the day, enjoy your family in whatever form it takes, and be happy.

 

All our best on this special holiday,

 

Gretchen