Being thankful when life gets messy

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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