Thanks.

 

Over the long and wonderful weekend, I found myself reading some information about the writer who wrote this op ed, among other things.  I read some pieces of her blog, and an article, and cried ugly tears that Zoe thought was laughing.  It was nice to realize she doesn't know the sound of me crying-- she was laughing at me, but I forgave her.

Reading about this mother and what she faces on a daily basis was humbling and inspiring.  I hate to sound trite or to trivialize her experience by saying it made me take stock of what I am grateful for, but reading it you can't help but realize that even those things that may be stressers in your daily life aren't so bad.  So, in the spirit of thanks and giving, some things I am grateful for:

* My still-for-now- toothless baby's gummy smile, which she flashes repeatedly while doing her new trick of clapping.  Remarkably, she wakes up with this smile, which makes 5:30 am just a little easier on me.
* My husband who makes me egg sandwiches almost every day, and sends me off to work with a packed lunch and a little bag of too many almonds.
*Our families, who we truly honestly would happily receive any member as a houseguest-- I know everyone cannot say that is true!
*Delicious food. And red wine.
*Surprisingly sunny and warm November days.  And swings.

I looked back on this blog and saw that last year at this time I mentioned how strange it would be to have a 9 month old at our Thanksgiving dinner.  And here we were, with a 9 month old tasting mashed potatoes.  So much fun with friends near and far (yeah Sharon and Gerald for traveling to see us!).  I realized I didn't really take pictures of dinner itself, but here are some of the weekend.  As you can see-- Aaron is still bearded!  Happy Thanksgiving.