I tend to get introspective around this time of year. Christmas and New Year’s make me think deeply about what I’m doing and what’s important. As I perused one of my favorite websites, PostSecret.com, I saw the photo below with the inscription:

i was at goodwill this morning with my mother looking at a coat when I saw this message inside. it touched me and i thought about it the rest of the day – with my mom.

A flood of thoughts flows from that photo. I’m thankful I still have my Mom, even as her health declines. I’m glad I’ve been able to tell her how much I appreciate all her love and action that helped me learn and grow. I’m thankful that TBW’s mother was in our life and gave such an amazing model for how to be a mother-in-law and grandmother. I’m especially thankful for TBW. She continues to make every day an adventure for me, never losing her charm or mystery. After 35 years, we keep getting better.

So here’s to you, Trisha, and to all those you’ve loved and touched. You’ve just added to your circle.