I am sorry that it has been so long since I have posted here. I am sure that I do not have legions of fans awaiting my every word and photo, but there are a few of you (thank you). And although I do blog in order to share my life with others, I mostly do it to chronicle and make sense of my own thoughts and deeds. And after the emotional weekend that Halis and I just experienced, I certainly feel the need to sort through my "stuff". Though all is quite well in our world, we spent the better part of our weekend continuing to sort through his belated Mother's household things. He and siblings held a large Estate Sale this weekend ... and let me tell you, if you don't already know ... it is never easy to watch strangers paw through your loved ones former life.
Some extended family came by to wish us well with the sale ... and many of them stayed to share loving stories about Halis's parents. Though these stories are absolute treasures to us ... they do conjure up intense feelings of loss. Many tears were shed. But many smiles were shared as well ... and that is what I need to focus on.
Good Lord, Halis and I have been blessed with such incredible people and experiences in our lives. We have been left with some amazing legacies ... and some big shoes to fill! Halis's Mom, Halis's Dad, my Pepere, my Mimi, Mrs. T, Marilynn Catanzaro .... what amazing people we have been loved and taught by. What lessons in love, courage, strength, generosity, truth, morality, tenacity, and devotion we have been blessed with. I hope we are forever mindful of these gifts. We certainly were this weekend.
All these thoughts lead me to want to make GRATITUDE a common practice on this blog. I am feeling the need to sort through and remember my blessings... on a regular basis.
Please indulge me :) Perhaps these regular gratitude lists will serve to remind you of all the blessings in your lives as well.
I AM FOREVER THANKFUL THAT ...
... when I climb into bed at night, the scene in the above photo is what I am greeted with!
... Halis was raised by incredible parents who put him and his siblings above all else.
... Halis will do the same for his children.
... my parents are always there when I (or my family) needs them.
... Halis and I know the value of a job well done.
... my son asks to "go home" whenever we are away for too long. And when we get home, he acts as though it is the greatest place on earth.
... Wende shared this video with me.
... I am beautiful (see video).
More gratitude to follow. I'd LOVE to hear about your blessing as well!
Lots of Love,
Jodi
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