It's snowing and windy here in SE Iowa. [View All]

The kids are driving in from Chicago tonight. The house is clean and peaceful until the grandbabies clear the door. I've been thawing a turkey for 3 days now and tomorrow will be spent preparing the same meal I prepare every year. I'm sick of cooking that meal. We only eat it once a year but I can't get the family to want to try anything else. It's warm inside. In a few hours the house will smell of pumpkin pies and turkey roasting. The laughter of busy toddlers at play will fill the house again. My grownup baby girl will help me in the kitchen while her husband and mine keep the kids corralled and talk shop. Tomorrow my son will call from California. We have almost made it through another year with no new major illnesses, a roof over our heads, and enough to support us on with no frills. Most importantly, we have made it through together, with family intact and cherished friends.

The problems we have had pale in comparison to those of the homeless, the hungry, the ill, the lonely, and the forgotten. For whatever fortune we may be giving thanks this holiday, let's remember those who have gone without and who are suffering--whether victims of disasters, war, hatred, violence, or personal circumstances. Moreover, let us turn our contemplations into gracious acts that last well beyond a date observed on a calendar.

Peace to you, my DU brothers and sisters, and for whom I am daily thankful.