As I get to the end of what has been one of the most significant transitional years of my life so far (the passing of my mom, major career change, transferring my childhood home, to name a few), I want to pause for a moment in thankful contemplation. 

This year has flown by, hours and days passing in a blur of grief, of worry, of stress. Yet, within the maelstrom, there are pinpoints of light, Grace, and blessing. 

The moment with one of my oldest friends (a chosen sister) as we sat in the church for my mother’s funeral …and the moment one of my other chosen sisters, who HATES to hug, held onto me outside of the church afterward as we cried together. 

Lovely moments with my various great nieces:

The time I was holding one in the pool at a party this summer. Asking her if she wanted to swim. She grabbed tighter and said “No! I wanna stay with you!”

The moment when another finally said my name. 

Receiving a handwritten note from another that said “I love you, I’ll miss you and I don’t want you to go” as our visit came to an end. 

Holding the newest of these little princesses and singing her Do Rey Mi – getting her to stop crying when no one else could. 

Other instances of light…

The playing of taps and the slow salute of the Naval officers as we interred the ashes of my parents.

Conversations, philosophical (and otherwise), with various nieces and nephews while sitting in the grass, by a pool, at a bar, or at 3AM. 

Moments of laughter and levity, usually wine induced, with friends and family who enjoy a good glass as much as I do. 

And finally, every single time my husband, even after 26 years, looked deep into my eyes and told me he loves me. 

It’s easier to remember a year when big, life-changing events occur, especially when they’re difficult. 

It’s harder to recall the hundreds, maybe thousands of tiny moments that make us smile and warm our hearts. It is for these that we should be thankful. 

And I am. I truly am.