Thanksgiving 2012

This past Thanksgiving, we did things a little differently and I have to admit that I am very pleased with the way it all turned out. Todd's siblings all came together with their respective others and in-laws in one central location and we all celebrated together. It was a nice blend of extended family and it gave my mom and sibs the opportunity to get to know the people that have so openly embraced me and welcomed me into their own family.

It very well could be T-Time talking (I swear I'm just a big walking ball of tears these days), but it was beyond words what I felt looking around the room at everyone. They say that we choose our friends but not our family, and while I did choose to be with Todd, many of the "family" that came along with him, I did not choose. I didn't even know them at the time. But I'm glad they're here. And if I could've chosen I don't know that I could've chosen anyone like them. Especially Erica and Keisha. I always wanted a big sister growing up, and now I have two. Those two are sisters and friends rolled up in one and what they mean to me now, I never could've seen it coming.

I was also thankful that my mom, bro and sis came. It made my night to see them interacting with Todd's family. It doesn't happen as much as I'd like, but I've always enjoyed watching Todd around my sibs. He gets along with all of them so easily, something that is very important to me because I love them so much and they were all my babies before I had my own. I was thankful for the chance to share an important part of my life with my mom. She has such a good heart and good intentions, even when it doesn't come off that way or work out the way she's planned. And I was glad that she was able to witness the outpouring of love towards me and Temi from people other than herself. I know as a mother how good it feels to see others love your child. And love is what my blended family does. Each in their own way.

Of course Temi had a blast. Food. Cousins. Aunts and Uncles. Grandparents. Food. Did I mention food?

This Thanksgiving I had a lot to be thankful for and it was evident as I looked into the faces of those that I love. Enjoy the pix. :-)


 

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