2 of my favorite people!

As Thanksgiving approaches, I am pausing to be thankful.  What comes to mind:

• Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Nevada all certifying their election results
• The GSA giving the Biden team the keys
• Biden’s initial Cabinet picks
• Promising COVID 19 vaccines on the horizon
• Starbucks Christmas Blend
• My family is healthy
• Speaking of family, I am thankful for my two stepdaughters, A1 and A2 (pictured above)

I first met my stepdaughters when they were two and three.  Their dad and I met in May 1978 and were married 4 months later.  I became their stepmom overnight and I didn’t have a clue!  I was raised as an only child and rarely even babysat.  Enter two toddlers! I was a deer in the headlights.

On top of that, I didn’t know how to cook.  When they stayed with us, they were treated to Cheetos, Banquet Chicken and SpaghettiOs!

We all grew up over the years.  And I have to say that the two of them get the credit. I never felt any anger or resentment from either of them They were always great to me; I am fortunate that we are still close as adults.

A1 lives in Oregon so we get to see her and her family frequently (pre-COVID).  She has three children we have watched grow up.  The oldest just started college and the youngest is in high school.  One of our granddaughters is on the autism spectrum.  A1 has done an amazing job parenting her and she is a delight to be around.  Nothing beats a big smile from her when she sees us!

A2 lives in Montana so we don’t get to see her and her family as frequently.  She has two boys and is a school social worker, a job she loves that loves her back.  Her two boys are into the outdoors and the oldest just shot a big mule deer.  The youngest is an avid fisherman, like his grandfather. We love visiting them and it is a treat to have them come our way.

I know that the ‘step’ relationship can be a challenge on both sides.  But I have to say that I won the stepdaughter lottery with ‘my two girls’. 

Sending love and gratitude to both of you and to our amazing daughter, J!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone and please STAY HOME!

See you on Friday,

Allene

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