Thanksgiving, the Sequel

Coty family circa 1974

Thanksgiving has just passed on my calendar, but not yet in my heart. And I'm glad.

This year, more than other years, I was acutely aware of the passing of time. I came across this old photo of my husband's family that was taken around the time I entered the picture as a fresh-faced college freshman, giddy with girlish dreams, ambitions, and of course, falling in love with this hunky guy (second from right) and the family that came with him. 

In those days, I didn't realize that it wouldn't go on forever - the holidays shared, laughs remembered, and little idiosyncrasies known and appreciated only by members of a family. A truly special, exclusive little club that we may not fully appreciate until the club is disbanded. 

But now I know. Kids grow up and move away. Parents grow older and then are gone.

I smile at this photo of my beloved parents-in-law even as I mourn that they no longer grace our Thanksgiving table in body. Only in spirit. I'm thankful once again for the limitless love they showered on us while they could.And I renew my prayer that I can do the same for my children and grandchildren during the years - the marvelous blessing of time - that I'm given with them.