Happy Thanksgiving……

Another year and another Holiday Season begins.

I have learned in the last couple of years that the Holidays can be one of the most difficult for anyone who has lost a loved one.  The one in 2011 was hard for me.  I think that this one will be much better.  And for that, I am Thankful.

Throughout 2012 I have been traveling and seeing things that I have not had a chance to see before.  I have done some of this alone except for my co-pilot Molly, my poodle.  I have done some of it with dear friends.  And for that, I am Thankful.

I have begun sewing and crafting and quilting in earnest.  I have met new people who enjoy learning to do different things and who also enjoy things that I have been doing all along my journey.  I have grown closer to old friends and enjoyed watching some of them stretch their wings a bit more and fly.  And for that, I am Thankful.

I have found out that my closest friends will do anything for me, all I have to do is ask.  I have found that if I do not ask, no one knows I am in need.  I have found out that I do not have to go through this journey alone unless I want to.  And for that, I am Thankful.

I have discovered that my grieving is on track for me.  The lessons learned from GriefShare have helped keep me grounded and moving forward.  And when I get ambushed by my grief, I have the tools to get back on track.  And they have asked me to assist in the next GriefShare session so I can hopefully give back to others in their grief as well as gain some more ammunition to cope with my own grief.  And for that, I am Thankful.

I am discovering my own spirituality, or going back to it.  I have always felt I had a closeness to God and I have attended different churches and religions through my life.  I have been going to the local Mennonite church in Parkesburg (they sponsored the GriefShare program) and I am finding a wonderful spirit among the people there.  And for that, I am Thankful.

I am going to be with family today for dinner.  These people are my late husband’s family, but they have continued to include me in family celebrations.  I enjoy spending time with them will do so again, today.  And for that, I am Thankful.

To everyone who have come into my life, either by family ties or friends, old and new… may you all find good things to be Thankful for… because I am Thankful for you.