Thanksgiving 2012

Well, the holiday season is officially upon us.  This Thanksgiving was a momentous occasion for our family this year...the first holiday spent in our new home in North Carolina, many miles away from the friends and family that I grew up with.  I can't say that a wistful sigh didn't pass my lips as I busied myself in the kitchen, thinking with a tingle of longing that last year at this time the kids were running, creating havoc with their cousins, with Todd and his brothers talking shop and soccer in the living room and their wives helping me in the kitchen.  This year, I stood alone in my kitchen, whipping up Thanksgiving delights, with only my ipod and the occasional interruption from River to keep me company.  But this holiday was not sad.  Not in the least.  We started to create new memories, new traditions, that I hope will last in the years to come.  The kids and I started a "Thankful" book, where they each had a piece of paper and wrote down what they were thankful for this year.  We will do this each year from now on and I am going to compile them into a book.  It's amazing what they thought of.  There was the usual, being thankful for toys and electronics...but some surprising things too, like family, our country, our soldiers, and life itself.  I'm sure it will be fun to look back on these in years to come.  River enjoyed his own version of Thanksgiving dinner...an organic turkey and squash dinner that Daddy found last night at the store with peaches for dessert.  As I looked around the table today, I couldn't help but think that next year Triston will be in middle school, and River will be a year and a half, and everything will be so different.  But my goal is to stay in the moment, and enjoy the now.  We ended dinner with a family soccer game...the kids beat Todd and I with a score of 8 to 6...they were excited!  So, while we definitely missed our family and loved ones, we know that despite the miles, the love is still there.  I am thankful for our family and the love we have for one another...love that lead to one last "festivus" miracle today in the renewal of a family relationship that had been terribly strained.  When you least expect it, life throws you a new and wonderful turn, and if you're smart, you go with it.  Happy Thanksgiving everyone. 

I can't believe my little Barrett is 9 years old!  How quickly the years have passed!   It was only yesterday that we brought you home from the hospital, taking your picture next to the turkey breast we were having for Thanksgiving, because you were just as small and plump.  You are such a smart and amazing boy.  I can't believe what a terrific soccer player you are!  Your Dad and I are so proud of you and all you do.  You are also such an incredible artist, and your thoughtfulness touches my heart every day.  Enjoy this last year as a "single digit", enjoy the wonder and magic that still surround you.  Have a wonderful  birthday and a wonderful year celebrating all of your new accomplishments.  I love you so much! 
Love,
Mom