Tomorrow is Thanksgiving.  It’s a day when families come together and celebrate all that they have been given.  It’s a day without the pressure of gifts, or elaborate decorations.  It’s a day to just revel in all that life has given us.

Until Avacakes was born, I don’t think I ever understood truly, the meaning of the word grateful.  Like so many other emotions, it was there, buried underneath the surface.  Her arrival into my life made me realize the true meaning of joy, happiness, appreciation and even fear.

But today, let me give thanks for all that I have been blessed with.

First, for my husband.  We’ve had our rocky moments.  The times that made us question our relationship and ourselves.  But we’ve always managed to pull through it and lean on each other.  I have a renewed sense of us, and our future.  He lets me lean on him when I need to, and steps back when I need solitude.  I am thankful every day that I have this wonderful man in my life, as my partner and friend.

My daughter.  Oh, Ava.  Words can never truly express how much you mean to me.  How thankful I am to have you.  That you are happy, healthy and full of life.  Each morning brings new smiles and laughter to the house that is now a home because of you.  You remind me to take joy in small things.  Watching you grow has been the greatest treasure I could have been given.  My heart bursts with joy and pride each time I look at you.  You are the light of my life, and I am truly grateful.

Family.  The ones close, and the ones far away.  My husband’s family who took me in 10 years ago and made me part of their family.   You gave me a sense of belonging I hadn’t felt since my father passed away.  For that I can never thank you enough.

My tribe.  My online community of friends.  I am amazed by your generosity, your kindness.  I’ve seen it in the past week as everyone once again came together in a time of crisis and need.  Once again, you stepped up.  I hope I never need that kind of support, but it’s comforting to know it would be there if I did.

My newfound friends.  You know who you are.  The ones I’ve shared emails, and texts with.  The ones who let me lean on them.  The ones who trust me with their own troubles.  I am humbled and grateful beyond words to have found you.

I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.  May it be a safe and joyous one.