Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving. Turkey (tofurkey), gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, yummy stuffing, salad of some form or another, Grandma's cranberry mold, pumpkin pie, mom's apple pie and so much more.
Thanksgivings were filled with Mom always making sure everyone had enough to eat and drink. She was the consummate hostess in all ways. Her food and decorations rivaled Martha Stewart.

Those days are gone. Have been for some time. Two years ago when I was home for the holidays, Mom, Voyageur and I had some fun times - http://twosistersandadementedmom-voyageur.blogspot.com/2012/11/its-holiday-season-again.htm
/2sistersandmom/2012/11/suspend-judgment.html  Last year was challenging, Mom was pretty sick with both dementia and her yet undiagnosed lung cancer.

Still, so incredibly grateful for all the years I had with her - truly an incredible mom and lady who walked this earth. Even in the midst of her dementia, always taking care of other people, she would help those in wheelchairs who lived with her in the memory care facility - mind you, she wasn't supposed to be doing that (she could possibly get hurt). Her closest friend in the residential home was a retired nurse - the two of them would get in trouble helping others get in and out of bed. Her creed in life was helping others and finding humor in challenging times. I hope some of that has rubbed off on me.

A day doesn't go by that I don't think about her and my dad. Both of them taught me to count my blessings daily, give up complaining and gossiping, and be kind and good to others always. Here's to giving thanks to all of you, and finding gratitude in all times.