This
is looking back on a Thanksgiving past; just last year as a matter of
fact. It is my husband Phil's tradition to grill the turkey. He loves
it because it is an excuse for us to invite our friends over early;
thus extending the festivities.
The
holiday season is a time for family. If you are not living around the
family you've always known, then I believe it is customary to build
one. When we lived in Alabama we did just that. We had a six person
family. (only the men appear in the photo) We were relatively
inseparable for about a year, then the Army split us up. Two of us
went to Germany, two to Alaska, and two to Japan. At the moment there
is only one of us in Germany and I miss the other five like the
Dickens.
Relationships
that Army families build with one another is truly impressive. Just
last week I taught a class called Expectations and the Impact of
the Army on Family Life. (It is a class in the Army's AFTB
program) It's quite an interesting and in-depth topic, one that could
be covered for far longer than the 60 minutes I had. None the less,
in the lesson traits of a successful Army family are covered.
Words like Patriotic, Adaptable, and Sense of Humor are
highlighted. At the end of this portion of the class we share some of
our own words. Mine changes every time. I mention this because today
I change my word again. It is now Helpful. It's not a
groundbreaking word, but it means a lot. Everyone that I have met in
the Army, so far, is incredibly helpful and supportive. I think we
all know what it's like to need something whether it be advice, a
ride, a tissue, a meal, a dog walked, a beer; the list is endless. I
find that my community is never at a loss for people with helping
hands. We have all needed assistance, and we are all happy to pay it
forward.
More
specifically, recently I needed a Christmas tree. Without boring you
with the details I'll say it was an emergency situation and leave it
at that. Guess how long it took me to get a tree. Less than five
minutes; no kidding. I had a friend donate her tree to my cause,
deployed soldiers, and asked for nothing in return. Describing it as
plainly as I have; it may seem inconsequential. I however, was saved
by it . I am still impressed with how quickly my situation turned
from being a problem, to being a blessing.
I'm
sure there are a lot of communities out there that are like mine.
From the bottom of my heart; I hope you've got one. I see lots of
people posting things on the FB that they are thankful for. As cliché
as it sounds; I am thankful for my Army community.
That
being said, I will (obviously) not be spending this holiday season
with typical loved ones. I have been invited to celebrate with a new
family of friends; who I am sure will be just as wonderful as my
last. I am looking forward to experiencing their new traditions and
sharing one (or two) of my own. Yes Sarah Jackson, I will be bringing
your Bourbon Balls tomorrow. I am sad to report however, that I do
not see any Hand Pies in my future.
For
some reason this particular holiday has me reflecting more on my
life, and friends and family, and being American, than any has before
it. I have been finding it equally as rejuvenating to look back on
how I've gotten to my current position in life, and remember to use
it as a tool to enjoy now. If you are interested in a few amusing
anecdotes from the now, click here.
