Have you ever thought about the epiphanies we have in life and why they took so long to happen? I had an epiphany this past week and after I thought seriously what took so long! I have been living my life in limbo for the past several months. Always thinking I'll be heading back to Virginia soon so don't get involved in anything too much in Plymouth. Well, this past week I thought why am I in limbo? Why am I not living in the present moment? Life is happening around me all the time and I am keeping my distance. Well, one day at a time if possible from now on. Support the local business, theaters, etc. I know some day I am going back to Virginia, but that does not mean I can't live where I'm at. I must embrace life where I am now.
I think that's part of the reason I went to the Thanksgiving Parade yesterday. I wanted to participate in activities here. The crowd estimates were about 200,000 people. It was cold, but not as cold as it could have been. I was a little sad as I went by myself, but still fun. I saw a cousin's husband and his group play the bagpipes in full Scottish dress. They sounded great. There was a Coast Guard helicopter flying overhead for a while. I found out that after the parade they performed a lifesaving demonstration in the harbor. I did not stay for the entire parade as I got cold and wanted to stop and visit mema on the way home. I am checking out the local activities to see other events I can attend - lots of holiday concerts coming up and I love a good concert.
I forgot to mention that my sister, niece and I went to the Pentatonix concert. OMG what a concert - they are wonderful. The opening act - Us The Duo was also fantastic. We had a good night together. It was fun introducing them to this genre of music. The best part for me was the time spent with my sister and niece.
Thanksgiving is this week - are you ready? I have the turkey, but need to pick up a few more things. Have you noticed how small the fridge and freezer are at this time of year? Papa told me at least six times that he wants giblet gravy and to pick it up at the turkey farm (they have a store for meals and frozen items). I guess I better get there by Tuesday to be sure I can get it. He wants it for leftovers more than he wants it for dinner. I must say I laugh at the commercials about "Friendsgiving" as I honestly believe Patti and I started this many years ago, and continued for many years. We would invite all our single friends or those that could not be with family over for dinner. We always asked what your favorite part of the meal was. If I did not cook it, you had to bring it yourself. I cooked almost everything because I loved to do it. We had one friend that hated turkey so on the night before we ordered a pepperoni pizza and heated it up for him at dinner. He loved it. We had lots of laughs, lots of food and lots of wine. The best part for me was I did not have to clean up (I usually zoned on the couch for a few minutes). We would play games and just enjoy each other’s company. I have to say I miss those days. Now, our family gathers at the nursing home (in a reserved quiet room) to spend time with mema. We bring the meal and desserts. I invite the staff to pop by and other families because you know I'll have plenty and there will be leftovers. What do you do for the day?
I am thankful every day for the life I live and the learning experiences. Every day is a gift and what we do with it is up to us. I can definitely say I squander away some days instead of embracing all I can. I work hard to keep the negativity away as it is so draining. I want to say I am so thankful for friends near and far. You have no idea what your notes, emails, phone calls, etc. mean to me. I may not get back to you immediately so please forgive me.
My thoughts and prayers are with my friend Donna who lost her mother this past week. Love you my long time friend.
I am going to end it here for today. I hope you have a wonderful week. Take care. Chat soon. Marie
"Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." - Melody Beattie
"If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough." - Meister Eckhart
"Make it a habit to tell people thank you. To express your appreciation, sincerely and without the expectation of anything in return. Truly appreciate those around you, and you'll soon find many others around you. Truly appreciate life, and you'll find that you have more of it." - Ralph Marston
Referrals are always appreciated.