Usually we are more apt to list all the things we're thankful for around Thanksgiving time. However, I've found myself thinking how fortunate I am lately, as I've had a few reminders...
First, my mom is moving home! It has been a long road, with many moments of terrible suspense and difficulty, but she is going to be home hopefully by the end of May. It is amazing to think about all the things she's overcome in her lifetime; I hope to have one iota of her strength as my life continues! There are still many things to put into place, and I'm sure the road won't always be smooth, but I am content in knowing that my mom will finally be in the place she loves the most ALL of the time. I have to hand it to my dad; he is such a rock, and his love for mom is so incredible! He is so dedicated, and I am honored to be his daughter. We have had the fortune of going to visit a few times lately, and it has been so much fun to see Grayson interact with his grandparents! He loves them, and in his little two-year-old way, he understands about Grandma Chari, her needs, and what he can do to be with her and show her his love.
I haven't been a great Internet person lately, obviously; I've had a lot of things on my plate - mainly good though. However, the "stress" in my life is nothing compared to an event I learned of today. My childhood friend, Becky, and her husband Jake (someone I also knew in school), experienced a tragic, sudden loss while waiting for the arrival of a great joy. Their son, Ethan, who was born within a week of Grayson, died suddenly just under two weeks ago. I still don't know the details as to what happened, but my heart dropped as I read the news...I cannot even imagine how I would deal with such a loss, and it made me hug my little guy a bit more tightly. It makes those little toddler moments of frustration seem like nothing, and it made me take a step back from the pressures in my own mind to reflect upon what is most important and all the things I have to be thankful for.
As a side note, it is a blessing, in my mind, that they are expecting another child in the next few weeks; hopefully having the focus of a new life coming will help them cope. I know there are many things that cause distress and pain in the world, and it is easy to be wrapped up in whatever form comes our way. However, I am working hard to smile more, enjoy the little things, and look for my own "bucket list", as you never know what life brings.
Whew! I am feeling very reflective today, and though my entry is a heavy one, I feel better in my mind for posting it. I want to take a moment to remind all those I care about just how special you are to me, and want to send a little smile your way :)
