Thanks Stuff

I’m going to get a little sappy today.

I don’t take enough time to appreciate all that I have to be thankful for.  It shouldn’t take a turkey and stuffing to remind me of the wonderful life I have, but it seems that sometimes it unfortunately does.

My family brings me such joy that it’s really difficult to convey my feelings. It always amazes me that my four children, Brooke, Dalerie, Charles and Jack have grown into people I would choose to be my friends. I cried last night when it hit me that I’ve had the distinct honor of watching them grow into productive and successful individuals and that they all made their best efforts to make their mother happy.

Brooke

Brooke will be joining me in Dallas for my company holiday party next month. She leads a busy life – she’s a manager at a bank in Delaware and is the mother of the charming Hassan my youngest grandchild. She opened her home (and her wallet I’m sure) to her little brother Charlie when he decided to go to college there. I understand the sacrifice she’s making to spend 3 days with me and my heart is just bursting with happiness that she’s willing to make the effort as well as bear the cost and hassle of flying during the holidays.Brooke and Hassan

Dalerie

Dalerie lives in Florida with her husband, Tawan and my grandsons Kavon and Jared. We talked for over an hour last night and she’s balancing parenthood with full time work, as well as pushing forward in her fledging songwriting career. Despite her heavy schedule, she’s coming to Atlanta soon, just to see her mommy, and I’m touched.Dalerie

Kavon and Jared

Charlie

Charles goes to school in Delaware (Wilmington College) and works full time – his manager sent him to Virginia a few weeks ago for a supervisory training program and he’s on track for a promotion already. The kid is just 19 and I’m so proud that he’s handling his life so well.  I can’t wait to see him for Christmas.

Jack

Jack is just 16 and  he’s doing great in school and he takes the time to check up on his old “ma” on a regular basis.  He’ll come over and sit down and just hang out with me – he can’t imagine how good it feels. He’s an artist and has written and illustrated 2 full length comics. I’m not happy with the language his characters use at times, but his talent amazes me.

Jack

All of my children are happy and healthy. 

See – look at all the great stuff I have happening in my life – but wait, there’s more…

I have real friends who show me they love me and it’s wonderful to know. Some of you readers are among those I count as my real friends. I’m thankful for all of you.

I’ve made peace with my ex-husband, Charles and we’re finally friendly.

I just had my review at work and my boss gave me a much bigger raise than I expected. My coworkers treated me like royalty yesterday to celebrate the happiest day of the year – and even some of the couriers and building people took time to stop up and wish me well.  I’m blessed. (or however I should say it since I’m a pagan)

My girlfriend, Brenda, came over to spend the evening with me – taking about boys, and laughing and crying about our lives – she capped off a perfect day. Another girlfriend, Seria, called to tell me that she’s treating me to dinner and drinks tonight at her open mic poetry affair. She already arranged my transportation so I have yet more birthday fun to look forward to.

Adrian and I are still friends and I’m grateful for that.

I wish everyone a safe an happy holiday, and I’m looking forward to stories from you guys on Friday.

<kiss-kiss, hug-hug>

jali