This time each year, it is important to thank those who have helped you because life can be weird. Sometimes, you are the one who provides care and support, and other times, you are the one who needs it. This year, I have been more of a taker than a giver. So, I give thanks to the following:
My readers: You are a dedicated bunch, reading each column. Thank you! I write to make you chuckle and give you a few minutes of fun. If you only knew how much your emails mean to me—well, it’s embarrassing how happy they make me. Just the ones of praise, not the critical ones. I never learned how to take criticism and, at 61, I don’t plan on learning how to now.
My editor and publisher: I give my editor Stephanie a 600 word salad each week, and she prevents me from making an ass out of myself because I am not a writer—my education is in finance. Lauren, Town&Style’s publisher, manages to keep this women-owned St. Louis publication chugging along because she always finds a way.
The advertisers: Thank you for spending your money locally and supporting T&S. Our publication is free because of your support. Because we keep a wall around our editorial content, I am sure there have been a few times when you wanted to scream about something I wrote. First, I am sorry. Second, thanks for not actually screaming.
My friends: Yes, I have been a ghost this year. I’ve canceled plans and haven’t been willing to commit to anything. But you all keep trying, and every time you do, I know it’s your way of showing me your love. Thank you for hanging in there. Most of us have been friends for more than 25 years, and this year has shown why. Your kindness keeps me going.
My family: I’ve not seen much of my siblings this year due to COVID-19, which makes me sad, but I know the crazies I love are just a phone call away. My sister moved closer so it means more uninvited drop ins by me, which I love! My sister might feel differently.
My little family unit: My son, daughter, daughter-in-law and grandson are bursts of sunshine. Things always are better when Jack smiles at me and says, “Hi, Mama.” Tess continues to be That Girl. (I hope you get the reference.) Nothing stops her. And Lisa, what a great mom and wife, but more importantly, what a wonderful person to have in our family. Robbie, my grandson, who tolerates me, makes me insanely happy. Carey has been my husband for 38 years. No one has a perfect marriage—we sure don’t—but he is my guy. I would still pick him out of all those Washington University soccer players back in 1978.
For those of you who are asked to offer a prayer at Thanksgiving dinner, I leave you with this Irish blessing:
May God give you for every storm, a rainbow; for every tear, a smile; for every care, a promise; and a blessing in each trial. For every problem life sends, a faithful friend to share. For every sigh, a sweet song. And an answer to each prayer.