give thanks

Thanksgiving has never really been a big deal to me.  Don't get me wrong, I love the holiday, but in my family, we never really went all out for it.  In fact some of my fondest Thanksgiving memories involve hot dogs from 7-Eleven and some really good turkey sandwiches and boxed stuffing on two separate occasions.  In all honesty, I can't remember the last time I was even home for Thanksgiving.  It just doesn't happen. 

Despite the lack of pomp my history has given this holiday, I really love it.  I love the food, the colors.  The way families and friends come together for one day, just one!  It's amazing!  I really love how it kicks off the Christmas season.  As soon as the cider starts warming and the pies are baking, it smells like Christmas.  And I love that.  Really, I love having an excuse to show gratitude.

 Our first Thanksgiving married was last year.  We had just arrived, didn't have a clue what we were doing, didn't even have our stuff!  Mr. F went to work and I cooked all day long just to give myself something to do in this foreign place.  This year I feel like we're celebrating.  A year of marriage.  A year on the island.  A new home, friends, church callings, a wonderful job, healthy family members.  The list goes on and on of things we are celebrating.  For me personally, I feel so much happier this year, like I've accomplished something epic.  I've established a little home for my husband and myself where we are doing really well.  And we're happy!  

It just seems so fitting that Thanksgiving should so closely coincide with our Cypriot anniversary.  This little island has changed our lives for the better and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else right now, even on Thanksgiving.  For the first time I can remember in a very long time, I'm home for the holiday.

My friends, I hope your day is joyful, stuffed to capacity with good food, and filled to the brim with family, friends, love, and hope.

Happy Thanksgiving!