As Thanksgiving Nears These Photos Celebrate the Blessing of Family

"Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow." — Melody Beattie The world might seem a little crazy these days — Mother Nature appears to be really upset and as turbulent as the political climate. However, moments of gratitude, amidst it all, have never been too difficult for me to acknowledge. No matter how frustrating, exhausting or stressful life can be, there's never any doubt in my mind that the life I lead is a blessed one. To start with I'm fortunate to live in what (no one will ever convince me otherwise) is the greatest country in the world. My little spot in this vast nation is calm and quiet, lush and open space. I have lived in the same old century house I fell in love with when we bought it 40 years ago. My husband and I have raised four great kids in that home and we are now enjoying the delights of grandparenthood. Work is gratifying and I am fortunate enough to have several 'toys' that