‘Tis the season to express gratefulness

And I am, even in the midst of sadness and things we just can’t change or control

I am grateful for family, those with us here, now, those still on earth, but further away, those who have been part of our lives but who have gone on, ahead

Those who were with us blessed us with our history, raised us, gave us memories, skills, groomed us

I believe they are still active in our lives, operating a steering committee in heaven, delivering opportunities for blessings, nudging action, advocating with the big guy

I am grateful Matt gave me over 6 years in Virginia to be close to my beautiful family, be with my Mom, Aunt Dolly, all my cousins who are so very special to me

To build new friendships in the place that raised me

Honestly, the time we lived has enabled me to grow so much, to become more grounded in who I am

I am speechlessly grateful for that time, those experiences, Matt’s loving support

Today, I am grateful for all the resources and connections we have to support us on this very hard journey

I am grateful we are living this path out loud

I am grateful you are reading this, whether it’s today, on Thanksgiving or another day

I am grateful you are on this journey with us

Knowing there are hearts beating alongside the trail does make the steps easier

I can metaphorically look to my right, my left, and see we are not alone

Thank you for that, for the texts, calls, check ins, the mean more than I can articulate

Happy Thanksgiving to all! We send our love through the fresh air of this day to you