I began this year by listing off what I was thankful for on a regular basis. Although I think about it every day, I have not really written about it in a while. I am so incredibly grateful to be ending this year with a new husband and a new extended family; what an amazing gift these people are. I am thankful for all the wonderful people we have welcomed into our lives with our move to our new home. I am so flattered to be held in such high regard by a new neighbour and friend that she is unable to believe that I am not her Secret Santa. I appreciate so much the people who have continued to be a part of our lives, to welcome the paramedic into their lives and to embrace us as a couple and a family. I am so happy that the kidlet has neighbourhood friends and a school where he is thriving... and for his teacher who made a DVD of his acting debut. I feel great appreciation that I am well enough this year to participate in the holidays: to host a holiday luncheon for 140 students; to catch up with old friends who are in town for the holidays; host two Christmas dinners and a New Year's Eve party; and just to be able to leave the house. I am thankful to reconnect with a childhood friend, pick up where we left off (albeit virtually) and celebrate the silver anniversary of our friendship. I am thankful that I am back to a job that I love... and for my sense of humour during the times when I am not really loving it all that much.
While we said good-bye to others this year, I am grateful for the time we shared and the lessons they taught me... whether intentional or not. I am sad part of our family decided to leave but excited at the possibilities in store for my brother. I am thankful that I have come to an understanding with my 80 year old man stomach... I will steer clear of all things dairy and it will allow me - about 85% of the time - to get on with my life. I am certainly happy to accept an 85% recovery rate at this point... and just be thankful that it wasn't one of the more serious ailments the doctors threw at me with a wave of their dismissive hands as they ordered more pointless tests.
Earlier this year, the mother of someone who is incredibly special to the kidlet died. Although we were only acquaintances, I think about her often... usually as I listen to her daughter's laughter come through the speaker on the kidlet's iPhone as they "secretly" chat via Facetime or when our hockey kids tease the kidlet about his not-so-secret first love. Her not being able to hear her daughter's beautiful giggle has helped me find my own peace and perspective. At the end of the day, I am just so darn grateful to be witness to all these milestones in the life of such a special boy and to have a unique and dynamic person by my side holding my hand and kissing my forehead.
