I know that at times it is extremely hard to be thankful, more so when tragedy has touched our lives or we live with chronic illnessess. Caregivers at times have these same feelings, I was a caregiver to several family members, and now live with an illness. We often forget that life is not easy, that we have to struggle at times to survive the routine of daily living. We also must remember that small obstacles to us can be Mt Everest to some else.

This year as in most years past I will cook for the family, this means no one does anything but eat and enjoy being with the family. The 'cleaning' part can wait until the last person has gone home. I will go to bed after all has left and clean what is left the next morning.

So, I hope all of you are thankful for something, even a very small something, this year. I hope all of you do get to enjoy time with family, friends or just enjoying a peaceful day. I am so glad that all of you are still ALIVE and hope you have many turkey days to come.

Thanksgiving has always been my most favorite tradition. I think one reason is because of living so many years with an overwhelming desire to just end the struggling of life, I had to find a reason to keep going and get up every morning. I didn't have a choice, I had to be thankful for something in my life to keep living. Sometimes it would be just watching butterflies, doves, puppies playing or just feeling the sun or rain on my head, small but renewed life for the day.

I do hope you all find a reason to keep going, to find some tiny sliver of joy, hope and reason to continue the struggle of living. My heart would have an empty spot where you reside if you didn't decide to stay.

Happy Turkey Day and eat bunches of good food, and for once, eat that chocolate slice of cake,savor it, enjoy it and don't regret something you deserve!!

Love, Hugs, and Kisses to such special people.