We have so much to be thankful for. Yet, this holiday season has been a difficult one. L and I lost an important member of our family the day after Thanksgiving. It was sudden, unexpected, and extremely sad.

The past week has been a blur of the intensive care unit, tearful goodbyes, and family gatherings.

L’s family didn’t host their normal Thanksgiving dinner like they always do. This year, L and I had a quiet Thanksgiving lunch with my family and that was it. I am someone who complains every year that we have to “share” the holidays (split time with L’s family and mine). I’ve been a spoiled idiot for complaining. Seriously.

Family is everything. Hug your family members, and be grateful for every holiday, every gathering, every chance to spend time with them. The next holiday season is not guaranteed.