Happy Thanksgiving!

 

It's a cliche', but I am grateful.  Of course, for our family... it is so nice to have Steph and Dan right next door.  She was already over here this morning to borrow some rosemary - and I am thankful that she is handling all the cooking this year.  She baked an apple pie last night that looks like something out of a Martha Stewart cookbook.

I am thankful for our home.  Yes, the house is nice, but it is the people in it that makes it a home.  And the cats.  And, Rubina the Guide Dog for the Blind puppy that Steph and Dan are raising.  I love the view from our patio of South Mountain.  And all the plants and metal sculptures that Joan has brought together to decorate the yard.

It was one year ago at this time that we had to say our good-byes to Rufus (the most amazing cat ever), and for Steph and Dan to turn back Blaine (their guide dog in training); it was a tough time for our families.  But, Murphy, the angel/devil cat (40/60, but the numbers change daily), and Rubina the black lab puppy have joined with Tasha, Alfie, and Tango (Murphy's best friend) to make our homes and hearts feel full.

I appreciate our new life here in Phoenix.  I miss south Texas, but it was a good time for us to make this change.  We all have our health.  Steph and Dan are happy in their careers.  Joan and I are pleased to be gainfully unemployed, although she never runs out of things that need to be done.

The weather outside this Thanksgiving morning is delightful: sunny and an expected high of 78º.  I'm still trying to acclimate to the desert climate and the 30º+ temperature differences from day to night.  I have to say I appreciate this time of year over the summer heat.

I hope you are able to be with those you care about this holiday.  If not, hold them in your heart.

Happy Thanksgiving!