(You can find parts 1-4 here, and part 5 here.)
Here it is, the day before Thanksgiving and time to write my semiregular post on Autumn. The last was written in mid-October of 2017, over two years ago. I never got around to writing it last year, most likely because this time last year I was looking forward to another trip to Bucharest and not necessarily dreading the season. I was looking forward to the centenary of Romania’s Great Union Day, the parade, the Christmas Market at Piata Constitutiei, the street decorations, possibly a day trip to Brasov, and maybe even a little snow. All of that came to pass, and I had a wonderful time.
For the first time in forever (apologies to Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez for borrowing your line), this year, I have not dreaded Autumn and the approaching winter. In part deux I wrote “…I prefer warmth. I prefer my shorts and t-shirts.” I still like my shorts and t-shirts, but I’m not a big fan of the heat anymore. Warmth is fine, but now I find myself averse to the days that the mercury is scheduled to go above about eighty. 75 would be even better. That, and we had a lovely visit with my sister, Carol, and part of her family a couple weeks ago.
Today is a beautiful day. The thermometer says 59°, it’s cloudy and there is a light rain falling with more scheduled throughout the day. I am not at work today because I have to work Thanksgiving Day tomorrow. Later today, Sarah and I will celebrate our Thanksgiving, most likely with take-out from Lucille’s and some movies…maybe some Christmas decorating.
I wish I was looking forward to another trip to Bucharest, I am missing it very much. Especially knowing that I am missing the Christmas season this year. I am contemplating a trip in the spring, and thinking that I might even try two trips next year…spring and pre Christmas. Time will tell.
And now, my Thanksgiving post. I wrote this a few years ago, but it stands the test of time:
Today I am thankful for so many things…
I am thankful for my daughter Sarah Leann who as my sister put it, “has come through many challenges and sorrows to be a loving and compassionate young woman.” I couldn’t have said it better, so I won’t try. Well, maybe I will. Though times are not always perfect, I wouldn’t have changed one minute of life so far. Sarah challenges me to be a better person. Since the first minute I held her in that hospital, I knew I would never intentionally let anything bad happen to her. Mostly, I’ve succeeded I think, although bad things have happened, some how she came out on the other side as this outstanding young woman.
My granddaughter Faith, who is such a joy. And her sisters and parents. I am thankful that she has a good life and family even though I do wish I could see her more.
My sister Carol, who is an amazing woman and mother, and gave me a love for many things in life that endure to this day, not the least of which is a “liberal” outlook on life and compassion for others. Her husband Jonathan, who has been an incredible partner for her and father to their children. I wish I were half the man he is.
My nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins that I don’t get to see as often as I would like. Too many to name, and I don’t want to miss anyone.
My many friends, in real life and here in social media, some that I don’t always agree with, but who challenge me to defend my thoughts and ideas, making me a better person even when they are wrong. 🙂
I am thankful for my Romanian friends half way around the world.
I am thankful that I have always been gainfully employed and able to provide for my family.
So much more…and my thoughts are not coming together…anyone or thing that I’ve missed is not intentional.
If you’re reading this, you’ve been a part of my life in some way and I thank you for that. Each experience has led me to where I am now, and that’s a pretty good place.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.
steve949 