Thanksgiving Canadian Style

I think I forgot what Thanksgiving was having lived in Australia for the last 17 years.  But I have been quickly reminded while I have been here.  My senses have been awakened in the last couple of weeks with the smells and sounds of Thanksgiving.  

Walking not far from my sister’s home I was reminded of why autumn is one of my favourite times of the year!  The leaves on the trees were starting to change and the smell was fantastic.  I can’t really describe the smell, other than to say it was earthy and crisp.  It was wonderful walking through the forest; it was so quiet you could actually hear the leaves falling from the trees.  You could just stand and watch the squirrels foraging for food and hear the ducks on the lake.  It was absolutely calming.

Thanksgiving is all about being thankful for the life we have been given.  We never chose the life we have been dealt but we do have a choice as how to live it.  I have been very lucky to be born into the life I have and this was brought home to me when my whole family got together for Thanksgiving dinner (minus a couple of people).  It was so wonderful to sit back and listen to the laughter and the chatting of  parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles, this I am so thankful for.  But more so I am thankful to the most amazing friends I have, that made this trip possible because without their generosity and kindness I would never have been able to remember what Thanksgiving means.  I am blessed and humbled by having my friends in my life.

This has been such a world wind of a visit home, not expected by me or family and friends, but one that has been truly magical!  This was further reinforced last night when I met up with old friends, some I had not seen in 37 years!  Yes the age of 13!!  And funny enough it seemed that we just got together and carried on like there had never been the years between us.

This has been such a joyous and positive visit that it has reminded me how blessed I really am.  My batteries have been recharged and rejuvenated and I head home today looking forward to the next year.  I feel energized about what I believe I can now accomplish and look forward to pushing myself.

As for family and friends in Canada, adios, stay safe, healthy and happy.  I will miss all of you terribly but will see you again in the near future.  

Australia…here I come!