Thanksgiving at the Smouse House
Posted on 27. Nov, 2008 by Deb in Just.....Me
I’m on my second cup of coffee and a have opened a carton of peach yogurt. The animals have been fed and are already napping again. Kid’s boyfriend is here, she is in the shower, and the younger kid is awake now. We are scheduled to meet my folks for an early lunch at 11 AM. Yes, I said “meet” since my mom has given up on cooking and has insisted that I not cook, so we are going to Cracker Barrel. Kid is going to her boyfriend’s for dinner tonight. Younger kid and I are going to Melissa’s for dinner. My job is to bring the salad and the wine.
When I was growing up, Thanksgiving was all about rushing to my granny’s house for lunch (my dad’s mom) and then rushing to my Aunt Bobbye’s house for dinner (my mom’s sister). The food was always fabulous and it was sometimes the first time in ages I would see some of the cousins. After we grew up and had families of our own, it became almost political as to whose house we would be for which meal. As I grew more and more into the person I am today, I protested the rushing and the politics because I wanted Thanksgiving to be what it was meant to be about: being grateful for what we have in life, time to enjoy our family and friends, moments of peace and joyfulness.
Those of you who know me well know that my mother is one of the most negative people in the world. For her, the glass is always half empty. It was so easy to get sucked into that mindset right after the divorce. I had to learn to step away at times. I may have a rough day - or week - but I have learned that I have much to be thankful for and the best approach to life is sometimes to start fresh in the morning. It’s what I try to teach my kids each day, but especially this day.
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” ~John F. Kennedy
Life is short. Much too short to not appreciate what you have. Wishing and wanting for all you don’t have is shortsighted. Remember today what you are thankful for. But moreover, I hope you are able to live that each day of your life, not just today.
Later. Cracker Barrel is calling…..
