Gratitude

On this Thanksgiving Eve, I am grateful for

The blissful sight of my tanned daughter, Aster, shivering outside at O’Hare after arriving from Miami where she is making a difference as a City Year volunteer.

Receiving an email from my oldest daughter, Abby, announcing the details of her graduation from NYU at Yankee Stadium this spring.

Hiking along a breathtaking mountain stream in the remote Central Asian country of Kyrgyzstan with my son Aaron

The wonder of gazing at centuries-old Byzantine mosaics in the Aya Sofya

Sharing apple tea and conversation with jeweler in the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul.

Conversing with a Swedish grandmother, a volunteer who is teaching young Afghan refugees in her home country

Being able to use my skills and earn a living raising money for people suffering from mental illness and other causes close to my heart.

Growing beebalm in my garden again, even if the hummingbirds don’t show up

Having enough money to help my kids and travel.

Dear friends who make me laugh and write encouraging comments on my blog.

Family members who keep inviting me to thanksgiving dinner, even if my pumpkin pie is runny.

I am thankful!