What I Am Thankful For This Year...

We started the Thanksgiving holiday off by participating in the annual Turkey Trot. Gabby ran in the 4-5 year old race, and Rocco ran along with her. We would have loved to sign Rocco up for his own race, but the youngest race was for 2 year olds and he isn't quite there yet.

Gabby was super cute... she started off running... and then looked back to see Rocco looking a bit confused... so she ran back to him, hugged him and then he was off and running, chasing her.















After the Turkey Trot, we went for a long family walk... enjoyed the gorgeous weather and took in all the color on the trees.

We also talked a lot about Matteo and how this holiday was so different for us last year. I have a vivid memory of Matteo falling asleep on my mom's shoulder during Thanksgiving dinner... and then all 3 kids jumping and playing on Trish & Todd's bed after dessert. Such wonderful memories that I shared here last year.

We spent the evening with some of our wonderful family who lives nearby and our au pair, Sarah, who enjoyed her first American Thanksgiving. The food was beyond delicious and the kids had a blast playing with their cousin Courtney.

While I wish I could turn back the clock to the beginning of July, I know I can't. I also know I can't choose to only live in the past... or in a constant state of sadness and/or anger about Matteo's death. It wouldn't be healthy for myself or anyone in my life. Now more than ever... I feel a need to live life and cherish each and every moment.

With that being said... here are the things I am thankful for this year...
* The wonderful 17 months and 25 days I was able to love and get to know our son, Matteo.
* The good health of my husband and two living children.
* All of our dear family and friends.
* The miracle of life.
* Still being able to smile and laugh, in spite of the ever-present sadness.
* Sadly, a new perspective and appreciation of life... and what is TRULY most important.


Difficult times have helped me to understand better than before, how infinitely rich and beautiful life is in every way, and that so many things that one goes worrying about are of no importance whatsoever...--Isak Dinesen