2010

As you probably know our new year is off to a rough start as 2010 dealt us a powerful blow in the passing of our beloved Sister, Aunt, Great Aunt and friend "Buddy". We gathered as family to honor her and our memories of her at a visitation held on Saturday, January 9 and a memorial service held on Sunday, January 10 at the church she called home to prayer and worship. Brought together as a family in the wake of the loss of a love one, seeing us all together reminded me of all we/I have to be thankful for.

My wonderful husband and precious daughter who served as my rock and pillar during recent events I love them both and would never want to be without them.

My mother who is healthy and active. A woman who loves deeply and is willing to drop whatever she is doing to come to the aid of her family and friends. There is no obstacle large enough to keep her from being by the side of a loved one during their time of need.

A sister who is the epitome of love and caring especially during a crisis. She is unwavering during tough times and can be counted on to do what others find hard or impossible all in the name of love.

Uncles who shower you with hugs and kisses like no time has ever passed between your last visit. They are at the root of many of my childhood memories and I love them all more than they can imagine.

My Aunts who are strong and caring women. They are the silent and sometimes not so silent strength behind my Uncles and they add that special sparkle to the patchwork quilt of our family.

My Grandmother who despite weather, distance and no exact family relationship to my Buddy made it to the visitation. To feel her hug made me feel warm and loved despite the circumstances surrounding her visit.

My terrific brother-in-law and nephews who are mini reflections of both him and my sister.

My cousins with whom I have grown up. We have played together as children, laughed together as teens and cried together as adults. We have a special bond and that "glue" is what will help to keep us close and our family together as the years pass on.

My friends who are close enough to feel my loss as though it was their own. Their words of sympathy and offers to assist meant more than they know.

2010 may not have started out the way I planned, imagined or would have liked, but it has made me keenly aware of the abundant blessings God has bestowed upon me and my family.