Giving Thanks

On Tuesday we'll be taking the proverbial 'over the river and through the woods' trip to grandma's house for Thanksgiving. Well, now that I think about it, its quite literal for us. Over the river (Mississippi) and through the woods (all of western Wisconsin) to grandma's (well-soon to be grandma at least) lands us in Milwaukee.

We enjoy the trip every year because its one of the few times that all of the family members on Drew's mom's side (Montgomery) pile in one house for merry making. These happenings usually fall around holidays (namely Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas) and provide us with loads of calories, a few boxes of Franzia (oh, how I'll miss the Koolaid this year) renewed card-playing skills (Ever heard of Sheepshead?- me either until I married into this family), and the many comings and goings of family events. We love seeing everyone and being reminded of the strength and love that flourishes in our family. We also love the turkey and of course, Aunt Jan's special crunchy potatoes (sorry Jan, had to put that in there for you!)
So, this year as we reflect on what we are thankful for, I find myself with a never-ending list. If Thanksgiving were like the academy awards, they'd be playing the 'wrap it up and get off the stage' music for me for a whole month. Even then I'm not sure I'd get through everything and everyone. This year we've been especially blessed. So, drum-roll please, here is our abridged version:
We're exceptionally thankful for the tiny life we will be bringing into this world in May. We know so many couples who find themselves unable to have children and it breaks our hearts to see people so deserving not be able to share in the miracle of birth. I'm particularly thankful that the little squirt inside me is no longer making me feel incredibly sick and tired. Having an appetite again is fantastic. Especially before thanksgiving. I would have been so sad to not be able to eat all the delicious dishes. We're also particularly thankful for the blessings that have been bestowed upon our family and friends. One of Drew's cousins, Shanel, is currently winning her battle with Hodgkins Lymphoma, an invasive cancer. We are so happy to see her on the road to recovery and truly believe that all the prayers paid off :) We've also been able to share in a handful of successful adoptions, new babies, and engagements, and sadly, we've been thankful for the time we've had with those we've lost this past year. We're also thankful that we've been able to share so many wonderful memories with friends and family, thanks to all those who traveled to Minnesota to see us, and thanks to friends and family for great holidays, like Traverse City, Hong Kong and China, and Family Girls weekend in good ol' Bay County. Drew and I are exceptionally thankful for each other, as this year was one of change for us. From finishing our basement, to finishing my doctorate we've added a tremendous amount of strength to our relationship, and I know we will both be grateful for it when the baby arrives.
Its nearly Turkey Day, and while this post isn't so much about the baby and more about being thankful, we'd like to remind each one of you (we know you are out there reading this)one more time to enjoy the holiday and share your gratitude with those you love, because its not all that often that we actually participate in a day of thanks, let alone celebrate it.