An author and friend wrote last week and said it doesn't seem quite right to say "Happy Thanksgiving" with the loss of Jim this year. Please let me assure you, I have a great deal to be thankful for, and I wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving, and a time during the day that you can truly appreciate your blessings.First, I'm so grateful to have a wonderful family and friends, and all of you who have become friends. You all rallied around me in February when Jim died. Every once in a while, I receive a note from someone, as I did last week, saying we're still thinking of you, and praying for you. Thank you. When someone asked what they should say to a recent widow, I said I appreciated the hugs. Each one of your notes was a hug, and I could feel how much you cared. Thank you for being there.
From the time I was sixteen, I've worked in public libraries. I've been surrounded by books, but most of all, I've been lucky enough to work with wonderful people in Huron and Upper Arlington, Ohio, Port Charlotte and Lee County, Florida, and, now in Glendale. I'm truly grateful for all of the special co-workers in my life.
Before I mention my family, I want to say how much I appreciated visits from Susan Coronado, Julie Havir, Rodeane Widom, Jamie Shaheen and Beth Hoffman. The first three women were here the day Jim died, and helped me through the transition until my family arrived. Jamie's my college roommate, and she knew and loved Jim. She wrote a letter that made me laugh and cry, spent time talking on the phone, and came to visit a couple months later. Beth Hoffman flew in just to be here for me. Thank you to every one of you for giving of your time.
I'm lucky to have a wonderful family, beginning with my mother and two sisters, Linda and Christie. Your support, your presence, your phone calls, your funny or touching cards, all meant, and mean, the world to me. I have two supportive brothers-in-law, two nieces and five nephews. When I went home in August, I had the chance to visit with family and friends. It was so good to see and talk to all of you. Thank you for your love, and your time.
And, thank you to all of Jim's friends, who wrote notes, or attended his graveside service. In most cases, I never met you. It was so wonderful to hear your stories about Jim, and know how much you loved him.
Anyone who knows me, knows I can't write a note about my blessings without mentioning my cats. They are waiting for me, whenever I get home. And, I refer to the youngest, Jinx, as the laughter in my life. The cats make me laugh.
I have so much to be thankful for. So, don't hesitate to wish me a "Happy Thanksgiving." It truly is a happy Thanksgiving when you can count your blessings. I have so many in my life. But, I'll end this year's Thanksgiving note in almost the same way I ended last year's.
And, a final thank you to Jim, for twenty-six years. I loved you, and I'm thankful for the life we led together, the books and sports we shared over the years, the cats we loved, and all of our time together.
