I’m not technically American. OK, I’m not at all American but with a Texan husband and two dual citizenship children, Thanksgiving is a thing in our household. And I love it. As my sister in law puts it: ‘It’s the best holiday as you get all the food and family time without having to give any presents’! Plus it’s a great time to reflect on the things you are thankful for.
Life hasn’t been easy recently. In September, Mr C was diagnosed with kidney cancer. He is now recovering from having his kidney removed and in a few weeks we will find out what the next treatment will be for nodules in his lungs. Yes, I’ve shed tears and yes I worry about what the future will bring but instead of dwelling on it, I’m trying to focus on the positives.
There’s nothing like a cancer diagnosis to help you look at what’s important in life!
My husband
He’s funny, smart and supportive, and his positive attitude has helped us all get through the shock of his diagnosis. Yes, he still lets the kids watch too much TV and has his annoying habits but when you face the prospect of losing someone, you realise how trivial many of their daily foibles actually are. He’s been in my life for 15 years and I’m not sure what I’d do without him.
My children
If there’s one way to keep you in the present, it’s having young children. Their love, cuddles and energy never fail to lift me up. They are the ones I worry about the most in all of this but they have been amazing through Mr C’s surgery and recovery. I’m very proud of them and my heart bursts just looking at them.
Family & friends
The cushion of support I have received from my friends and family has been overwhelming. From emotional support, to practical help and thoughtful gifts, I know that I have so many people I can turn to. My sister in law flew over from America for Mr C’s surgery and my mum has been on hand all along which has been invaluable.
Blog
When I started my blog three years ago I had no idea what a big part it would play in my life. It is my outlet, part of my income and has led to some amazing opportunities. More importantly though, it has also introduced me to an amazing group of women who have become firm friends and an important part of my support network.
Where I live
I have always been a country girl and it is where I find my peace and solace. I am so lucky to be able to walk out my back door and straight into the fields and footpaths. Being out in nature always clears my head. The sense of space and freedom we have here, for the whole family, is a huge benefit to all our lives.
The NHS
I think we have got our money’s worth from the NHS, between the children’s allergies and asthma, my diffcult births and now Mr C’s cancer! And I am so grateful for, and proud of, the service. I cannot imagine going through this in the US and having to worry about medical bills on top of everything else.
Life is challenging, it’s messy and very often it’s unfair. But this Thanksgiving, take a moment to think about the things in life you are thankful, however small or obvious they may be. These are things that keep you going when times get tough.
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Happy Thanksgiving to you all! Sending much love & hugs from all of us & always here if you need anything lovely xxx
This is a lovely post! I agree with all of the things you’ve added! I’m also thankful for the English weather! Genuinely I love the rain and the blustery days as well as the sun we get on occasion!
Erin
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So sorry to hear of your husband’s diagnosis. It must be terrifying. There are many successful treatments now and the fact that he could have an operation is great news. Sending hasty get well wishes to him.
So sorry to hear about this but pleased to read your positive outlook on it all. Lots of love to all of you.
Great post, Emma! Think about you guys a lot. I’m so glad you have so much support and kid energy to keep you in the present. I’m thankful to have met you through our Allergy Travels/blog world. Sending a hug! Xx
Sorry to hear about your husbands diagnosis, sending you all good vibes. X
Its beautiful when a festival like Thanksgiving makes you sit down to be thankful for the little and big things in your life. Sometimes we forget what’s important in our lives.
I’m so sorry to read about your husbands diagnosis. It’s definitely good to be able to still find things to be thankful for. I have never celebrated thanksgiving but it does sound like a great holiday to celebrate.
The NHS is truly something to be thankful for. I think more people need to be more aware that it’s something worth protecting! I’m so sorry to hear about your husband’s cancer diagnosis; I hope that the prognosis is positive for him.
You are doing well to stay so strong Emma and I am proud of you! Cancer diagnosis is so hard, but the best thing you can do is stay positive. We are incredibly lucky to have the NHS in this country and the taxes we pay to have it are worth every penny.
Hold your family tight and love them with all your heart. My fingers are crossed for good news and recovery. I am here f you need me x