Another Thanksgiving has come and gone, and we’re still eating leftovers. It was a great weekend full of excellent food, wonderful family and friends who are like family. This year, Steve and I had a rare treat: Ralph, Blair and the girls came to visit and stayed with us. Normally when they visit, they stay with my mom and Burl, and I understand. We always stayed with my Grammie and Keck when we visited, rather than with my aunt and uncle, but I always wanted them to stay here now that we have the room for everyone.
The girls shared a queen-sized inflatable bed in the office which was right next door to the guest room. They loved being able to look over the ledge into the dining room and spent a lot of time throwing stuffed animals over the ledge to the floor below. Luckily, being 4 and 7, they had the energy to race down the stairs to pick up their toys. Yes, they slept well. Being able to spend time with them meant I got to watch them play and hear the funny things they said. Unfortunately, I can’t remember all of them, but they are sharp, intelligent, imaginative little girls. It’s obvious their parents spend quality time with them and they don’t watch too much TV. My sister is a great mother which is no surprise considering all the time spent bossing me around when we were kids. I’m sure the girls listen to her more than I did.
Like almost everyone, I did reflect on my blessings at Thanksgiving, and gave thanks to my family, friends, great husband, blessed life, good health, etc. While it can all sound a bit cliche, I think it’s important to take time to be thankful for what I have rather than what I don’t. I looked around the dinner table on Thanksgiving day and felt very peaceful. Yes, I am truly blessed. I missed seeing my mom, dad and their spouses, but was happy I got to talk to them and they were spending time with family too.
Tomorrow it’s back to reality as Steve and I get back on track with work and workouts. I did miss the gym these past four days, but enjoyed the break! I have a big show this coming weekend, Christmas shopping to do and a party to plan. And what will I wear?! Guess I’d better get off the computer and get to work.
Pretty Pretty Bang Bang 
We missed you all too – I haven’t spent very many Thanksgivings in the last 44 years without being with you and I hope that doesn’t happen again in the near future. I’m very thankful that you are my daughter and that despite my poor attempts at parenting, you turned out very well. We hope to be home late Monday evening – I’ll text you instead of calling to let you know we’re back safely.