Saturday, November 29, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving to All! Thoughts from Mary...


The holidays are upon us and it is a time that we all should reflect on our blessings in life. Many times we focus on what we don't have in our life and wish that maybe our children, our circumstances and our jobs were different. In every adversity in life their lies opportunity for growth.

The Sullivans in Meriden hosted Thanksgiving again this year and I could not help but note how quickly my nieces and nephews have grown all around. They are truly delightful, warm and caring human beings. A tribute to my brothers and sisters (their parents!) Thank you Terry & Susan for a great dinner!

After singing "The Titanic and Green Beret Song" from Mom & Dad's singalongs we carried on the tradition of picking names for Holiday gifts. This year I am saddened to say the in-laws are not paricipating. Although I do not have in laws. I disagree with this new directive, on the grounds of family unity and connectedness. Yes, it is just one more thing to do, one more gift to buy, but really it is not a burden on anyone. The idea is to keep folks together and connected. When you pick someone elses name you are thinking about them and finding out about them as a person. It is a way to include everyione in this once a year event. I don't think Mar-Mar would agree with this either!!

Kay and I also visited our sister Lynn at Talmadge Nursing Home in East Haven, CT. I would encourage all of you to visit your sister. Although she is not able to speak much. She did say, "I Love You". It doesn't matter how she got there, she is a human being and a family member. I know it is difficult, but please ask yourselves what if that was me??Would anyone visit me? Caring for and visiting the sick is a blessing to them and you will feel glad that you made the effort. Life looks different after seeing someone so young in a nursing home.

After our visit I said to Kay, "No matter how difficult life gets for anyone of us, we need to count our blessings."

Please do the right thing and visit Lynn this holiday season!

Thanks and love and prayers to all!! Love, Mary