I’ve always thought I was a thankful person. Â I always thought I was appreciative of the things that I had and the people I have in my life. Â This year, I think I learned about that more than ever.
It’s been a long year for me…
Last year at this time, I didn’t know I’d deal with thyroid surgery or the diagnosis of thyroid cancer. Â I didn’t know what a thyroid does, until it wan’t there to do the job. Â I didn’t know what it was like to deal with crutches and scooters and a foot that needed surgery. Â I didn’t know what it was like to deal with places that claimed to handicapped accessible, but then not be able to get my scooter in the place. Â I didn’t know what it was like to really be hurt by a friend and have them leave my life. Â I didn’t know the pain of trying to walk after a cast was removed. Â I didn’t know the helpless feeling of having to depend on others to get me places.
I also didn’t know what it was like to have a family really support me and be my help. Â I’m the one in the family that’s usually doing the helping, but I found they could be there for me. Â I’d never really tested the “in sickness and health” part of my marriage vows but now it’s been tested and Hubby came through in flying colors. Â I never, personally, knew the joy of receiving test results that were life giving. Â I never knew what a blessing it is to walk on two feet. Â I never knew the joy in being a grandparent. Â I never knew the joy in watching my child become a parent. Â I never knew that long distance friends can really have an impact on a person’s life.
There are so many things I’ve experienced over the last year…so-so many things. Â Many of them not so good…many of them good.
Even though there has been bad, Â some of them needed to happen so I could see the good.
I am so thankful for all that has happened to me this year…the good, and the bad. Â It’s helped me grow. Â It’s helped me to feel loved. Â It’s helped me really realize that our time here on earth is precious.
More than ever this year I am thankful for my family, my health, my home, and the people who touch my life.
So thankful for you, too, Jo! It’s amazing what a years worth of memories will do to you when you reflect back over them! Thanks for sharing little glimpses of yours with us through this blog! Have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Beautiful Jo, just simply beautiful. (((huggs))))
It’s hard to appreciate the high points without the low points. Like a quilt, the pattern isn’t as strong without the contrast. (Hallmark philosophy over now.) May your high points outnumber your low points by a wide margin! Happy Thanksgiving, Jo and Kelli any everyone else.
Happy Thanksgiving, Jo and family! You have had quite a year with all your ups and downs, but you pulled through beautifully. I appreciate all you share with us. Have a blessed day with your family. Hugs!!!
Jo, I really enjoy reading your blog. Yes, this year has been full of ups and downs, for you as well as for me….But friends and family, near and far, help us all get thru the tough times together. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving Jo! 2016 has been a roller coaster ride for you….it has for me too. Wishing you much happiness during the holidays and beyond.
Amen to that! Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving and may your good health continue.
So grateful for you as I count my blessings today. 2017 is around the corner AND that means a trip to IOWA for me, can’t wait! Hugs to you and your family!
Happy Thanksgiving Jo and family!
As others have said, I am very grateful that you are brave enough to allow us into your life! Your blog brings a smile to my face every day.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. You all give so much. Thanks for sharing all that you do.
Beautifully said and how heartfelt it feels for you to share your journey. May God continue to bless you while you bless others
Well said. Thanks for sharing your life with us.
Isn’t it funny how we need the bad things to totally appreciate the good things? You have a wonderful family who have more than proved their love for you. That, together with all your lovely blog followers must make your heart sing. Keep up the good work health wise , you are doing great. And my heartfelt thanks go out to you for your so honest blog. I feel so much like a dear friend each time I read it.
Linda
Thanks for all the pictures you post of quilting, day care kids, and your family – especially the grand child. I look forward to your messages every day. Hope you had a fun Thanksgiving with your family.
Hope you have a better year ahead. It seems that we all get our turn on that run of bad things. I guess it just makes appreciate life’s smaller joys and those amazing little miracles,grandchildren. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Jo, very nicely said. I am glad your health problems are better and I am also thankful for family, friends and you. You are so kind to let us all in your busy interesting life. Thank you for sharing !