I don’t seem to be alone with wanting to fast forward to Christmas. I am looking forward to the lights and the smell of orange, cinnamon and ginger all of which bring good cheer and warm memories. However, I am called to slow down and appreciate the messages that come with the Fall season and Thanksgiving. I scanned through my watercolor collection to find this abstract floral that I did in early 2020. When I turned it on its side and embellished with gold, I was ready to send notes of gratitude.

Even though 2020 has been a trying year, let us not forget to count our blessings and list all the “silver linings.” Though we are far apart, I have had more contact with my children this year than in previous years. I am grateful for the technology that enables that. I am grateful for the creativity that my daughter has to assemble a unique and what promises to be a fun virtual Thanksgiving experience that will bring our family and her fiancee’s family together.

Be grateful for what we have and not bemoan what we don’t have. I have been and will continue to count my blessings and will hold off on Christmas decorations to at least the day AFTER Thanksgiving, Happy Thanksgiving, y’all.