A few things I am thankful for.....

Thanksgiving is always a hard holiday for me. As a Native American Studies major I learned a lot about indigenous history and culture and the myths that plague American history in regards to indigenous people. Years ago before kids I made the trip to Alcatraz Island to watch the Native ceremony that takes place there on Thanksgiving day. Watching the sunrise and all the people come together to acknowledge, remember, heal, and celebrate was amazing. The Thanksgiving story that must of us were taught in our classrooms is nothing more than a myth. The truth is much harder to stomach. All out genocide, forced relocation, boarding schools, missions, adapting, and survival is the real story.So...while I love to get together, play softball, eat my tofurkey, I also like to reflect on American history and the struggles the people before us have had.Of course I also like to focus on whatI am thankful for. This year I have a lot to be thankful for. Here is a short list, and a few pics:

1. My mom continues to fight through her health issues. I am thankful for the possibilty that this will be resolved and better days are ahead for her.

2. Josh has reconnected with an old friend...Here is a pic of them around the age they were friends...something like 25 years ago...

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3. Kate has come home safely from her travels and is settling down (for now) in Santa Cruz.

4. We get to live in a beautiful, open, and inviting space for very little rent (thanks mom and dad)

5. I am thankful that my children get to enjoy the presence of mama and pa daily and that

 mama and pa equally enjoy this time spent with their grandchildren.

7. I am thankful for Charlie's free spirit and undying quest for

 adventure...

 

 and Kate's charming, silly, and always happy personality...

6. Lastly but not leastly I am incredibly thankful that I get to raise my two healthy, happy, and beautiful children with a devoted, funny, and compassionate husband in a gorgeous and peaceful community