I’m wondering if you know the feeling: you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, crazy busy getting everything ready–What time did I put the turkey in?–then finally, everyone is gathered, the potatoes are mashed, the gravy done, and you call the masses in to eat. But it’s only after everyone’s seated and halfway through their meals that you realize you forgot to give thanks. On Thanksgiving Day! I confess I’ve done this and ended up feeling like an overstuffed, ungrateful birdbrain–all before I’d even had pie!
This year, for a little insurance, I’m thinking ahead about all I’m grateful for and making a list. It’s not complete. How could it ever be? But it’s a start:
Summer sky over Lake Billy Chinook
First, I’m thankful for the grace of God, and how, despite evil and heartache (too much of which we’ve seen lately), hope and goodness shine through.
Anniversary dinner in Lincoln City, OR
I’m thankful for my husband, who shows tremendous patience with the hours I spend writing (and not cleaning house!)…
Asleep before the story is done, circa 2000
…and for our kids (who for some odd reason never learned to clean house).
Clayton and Hazel with neighbor “baby May”
I’m thankful for my parents (about to be great-grandparents again) and for every new day they’re able to stay in their own home…
Coffey sisters 1960s style (clockwise from upper left) Karen, Sally, Linda, Marcia
…and for my sisters, for all our years together, and that we’re each able to help with mom and dad.
I’m thankful for friends I can reach out to after a bad day for a little confidence or a big laugh…
…and for humor, EVERY SINGLE DAY, which keeps me sane!
Sunrise from our living room window
And, finally, I’m thankful for this life, however flawed, and hope that, one day, when it comes to a close, I’ll have family beside me and the presence of mind, one last time, to give thanks.
–If you’d like to add to this list, please feel free to leave a reply below–
