I am grateful

 "Gratitude is when memory is stored in the heart and not in the mind."

-- Lionel Hampton

Because our family is spread out geographically, the times we manage to come together are all the more precious. It takes a willingness, time, expense and energy on each person's part to make it happen. I am grateful. 

Making pierogi on Thanksgiving Eve.

Over the past couple of weeks, the Galloway clan has made its way to Farm Dover; with Jack arriving from Berlin two weeks ago, followed by Kasia (his financée) the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Mary, Brian and their two greyhounds arrived the same night, driving from Brooklyn. Maggie and family (in New Albany) have been back and forth, serving as airport greeters, treating Jack to a Peppa-Pig singalong at the Center for the Arts, participating in our early Secret Santa dinner and gift exchange, and feasting with us at Thanksgiving.

Slowly, the coming-together process unwound itself with Maggie and family leaving last Friday to continue celebrating Thanksgiving with Nate's family; Mary and crew leaving early Saturday morning for their long drive back, and Kasia catching a flight this morning back to Berlin. Jack is staying a few days longer but is off to the airport and some in-town errands, leaving the house eerily quiet this morning. 

Our farm house was designed for Ed and me to live comfortably. It was NOT designed for 8 adults, 2 children and 2 dogs to co-exist over days at a time; but somehow we did. My favorite memories will always be the in-between times when dishes were done and we all jostled for a spot to settle in for conversation. Much to their chagrin, greyhounds Saltie and Rita were often asked to give up their prime positions on the couch and relegated to doggy beds on the floor. 

Fortunately, there were long walks on our trails, late-night pool games in our basement, a big cardboard box on the covered porch for grandkids to play in and a fire in the outdoor fireplace in which to roast marshmallows. Somehow, we made it work; and I am grateful. 

Airport greeting committee

Family hike to the Fairie Village with (most) of Ensor cousins

Stairlanding commandeered for Magnatile creations

Dressed to avoid deer hunters

After the puddle jumping 

Nicely cleaned up for a friend's wedding celebration in Bardstown, KY

Peppa-Pig fans

Lego project under construction

At this point, I don't know when we will all be together again. I do know it will not be soon enough!