My children know this is my favorite holiday - the one without the presents, the one without candles to blow out, the one without crazy amounts of candy. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it's the one where we sit down together, enjoy each other's company, and share what we're thankful for.
I'm thankful for my family - There was a time many years ago where I didn't see myself becoming a mother - and I certainly didn't see myself married with three children. Now my dinnertimes are noisy, the kitchen is messy, and the house is full of footsteps - and I'm lucky for that.
I'm thankful for my home - We had major renovations done a few years ago - and our home was very vulnerable during both a hurricane and an earthquake yet we were protected from any damage. We even survived Superstorm Sandy with minimal damage, despite being close to the water and surrounded by homes that were hit hard. We are fortunate to be safe and secure.
I'm thankful for the nourishment at our table - Whether it's garden-grown vegetables from my yard (which the dog hasn't peed on and killed yet), the meal we are serving, or the wine in our glasses - putting together holiday feasts can be challenging and rewarding.
I'm thankful for time with my loved ones - our extended family has experienced many losses in the past year and I'm grateful we have the opportunity to laugh and cry with each other again.
This Thanksgiving when my house is filled with people, I will likely burn something in the kitchen, the dog may run away, and at least one kid will cry - I will look around and feel thankful for all of it.
Happy Thanksgiving, Moms!
