It’s Thanksgiving Day today in Canada. It’s a time to eat pumpkin pie and cranberry sauce and turkey. Or maybe tofurkey if that’s your style. It’s a time to gather together with your family and friends, mark the harvest, and appreciate the bounty all around us. And this year, with unseasonably warm weather here in Vancouver, it may even be a good time to head to the beach. But mostly, for me, it’s a time to count my blessings and remember what I am thankful for. It’s, you know, a tradition.
I like a tradition as much as the next person. Maybe even more than the next person. I think that using tradition and ritual to mark the passing of the year are excellent ways to connect us back to the natural rhythms of life, and create space for reflection. Or perhaps they’re just a good excuse to gorge ourselves and watch lots of football – both have a very important role to play. Either way, I’m taking a moment today to remember what I am thankful for this year. In looking through my archives, I can see that this will be the fourth year I’ve done this. To tradition!
What I am Thankful for this Thanksgiving
Raspberries in autumn (or really, raspberries anytime) from my back yard.
This guy, who has been my love and my very best friend for more than 21 years.
Living in peace.
Generous friends, like the one who gave Jacob this bike. Many children have learned to ride on it, I think it has good mojo.
Passing on the crafting gene.
Meeting people I’ve “known” forever in real life for the first time. The best part of the internet is the way that it erases boundaries of all kinds.
A fabulous new music class for Jacob.
A great start to grade two for Hannah.
Not one but two really well-fitting bras. A little support really does make all the difference.
Thrift shop scores.
My podcast, which affords me the amazing privilege of sharing other people’s stories.
Cheese, of all kinds.
Family.
Feeling like I am right where I am supposed to be.
Now I hope you’ll join me. I’ve shared what I am thankful for this Thanksgiving – what are you thankful for? I’d love to hear – whether you’re celebrating today or not!
amberstrocel
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Twitter: archaeolemur
says:
What a great list. So many things to be thankful for, for sure! What kind of music class is Jacob taking?
Brandee’s last post … Can you take a compliment?
Twitter: AmberStrocel
says:
It’s called Mr. I’s Musical Rainbow. It’s about learning basic musical concepts. And it’s really great, actually.
Happy Thanksgiving Amber! I’m grateful for some of the same – family and cheese, for sure
Also, my guy who has put up with raising our kids in ways that defy what appear to be “normal” but that feels right to us (cosleeping, extended BF, etc) even though that means him sleeping on the couch (by choice). I’m grateful for being able to live in the city and have a country escape (super recent addition), I’m grateful that I still remember how to write fiction even after four years of stalled efforts due to my small humans. And for good health for myself and my family. Can’t wait to cook my celiac daughter an awesome GF Thanksgiving in November! Oh, and last but not least grateful for this blog that I come to regularly for wisdom, commiseration, and humor.
-Dana
Dana’s last post … Lime Tarragon Cookies Gluten Free