A letter from my sister...

What a wonderful letter...from a wonderful woman. We all can learn from this one. And, yep...this is my "little" sister.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Over the years of celebrating Thanksgiving I am not sure that I have really stopped and thought of the things that I should have. As the years have passed since we all lost our husbands, fathers, and friends I have begun to realize a lot of what I should really be thankful for.

Yes my life has been full of ups and downs, but I must say that I have been one of the most fortunate and have many wonderful memories that I received through out my life. I would like to share a few of those that I am most thankful for and hopefully it will give others the time to reflect back on their lives and the wonderful memories that they now have.

As a child growing up in a military family I had the adventures that many were not fortunate to have. I have been to many different states and countries meeting and making friends at every stop. To have so many wonderful friends even the ones I am not be in contact with filled my life with great joy. I was able to learn and experience different cultures and I know how terribly lucky we are here in the states to have the freedom that we do. Even when we do not always agree with he direction things may go - having friends that have different beliefs are some of the things that help us grow as a person and nurture what we ourselves become. So all of you - my family, friends and yes even the enemies I want to Thank You for sharing part of your life with me.

Life has treated me like a queen as I have had true love from a men that gave me life, hope, strength, understanding and one that would stand beside me at all times - even when I was in the wrong. He taught me to stand on my own two feet, to trust and love and to enjoy life to the very fullest. How can you thank someone for all of that they have given you - I think the best way is to pass that knowledge on to others and hope that they may receive a little from me of what I from others.

My three children and grandchildren have given me a love that is like no other - one to be cherished - there is no unconditional love like the love that a child will give to you as their parent. How very thankful I am to have such love from all of them. Thankful that no matter how many times I may have done wrong in their eyes or to them and I thank GOD every day that they are part of my life - they are the light of my life that I know will always be.

To the friends that I have developed and not had the pleasure of meeting in person I also thank you as I have learned and received a lot from all of you.

Some of what I have learned through out my life has been hard but I do pray that they have made me a better person - that I can see beyond my little circle with more understanding, honesty, and trust for all.

As I thank GOD this year for all that I have received I want to thank each and every one of you for what you have given to me. The smallest seed can grow into a beanstalk if you let it.

Yes I am very thankful for all that I have received in my life and what I know is still to come.

THANK YOU ALL.

I am hoping that you all have wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving and you are with family and friends.

Love to you all - Diane