On this day of thanks, I keep encountering sad news. I keep vowing the day is going to turn around, and then I hear something even more sobering. So this year I suppose I’m a little extra thankful. Especially for those who share my home. It’s all very sentimental and schmaltzy, but I want it written down somewhere, so bear with me.
Ellery, sweet Ellery. Even as your teeth break through and you’re stumbling through those first few adventures of mobility, you always have a smile on your face and a sunny disposition. You climb on board each day and sail along without a complaint or worry. As long as we scoop you up and welcome you in, you’re blissful and content.
Shep, my little rock star. You’ve been carefully studying the moves of the characters on Guitar Hero, because from behind, I could mistake you for a member of an indie band. And somewhere in between all the craziness, you always remember to say “please” and “thank you.” I can’t take credit for that, but it warms my heart. But nowhere near as much as my double kisses you give each night. First one cheek, then the other, followed by a peel of giggles. I know this routine will go on hiatus in your teens, but I plan to reclaim it in your twenties when I visit you on tour.
My Neko. It used to be I couldn’t get you in regular clothes because you were always naked. Now I can’t get you in regular clothes because you’re always in costume. Today you celebrated Thanksgiving in full turtle gear (nearly having a coronary when you spilled cranberries on your shell), and tonight I looked up to see you drawing in PJs, a Dora backpack and bug antennae. How can I not admire your spirit and fierce independence, even if some days it brings me to my knees?
And Tom. There’s no way I could do all this without him. Not just because he gives the kids baths and makes Sticky Mouse pancakes and maple scones. Not just because he takes time out of his morning to make sure I have coffee and the dishwasher is unloaded. He humors my organizing neuroses and patiently waits while I do “just one more thing.” But mostly, because he is just so there in our lives. So very present and completely engaged.
For this, and our many other family and friends, I am thankful.