There are many things in life that we get caught up in and take for granted, and in turn, we tend to lose track of what is really important. I do it probably more often than I’d like to admit, but all it takes is a simple reminder from someone or something to bring me back down and keep me grounded. Last December was not the easiest month for my family. It always seems like the worst things happen when we’re supposed to be filled with holiday cheer. Funny how things work out that way.
Anyway, we were in the process of caring for my aunt who had been in the hospital for over a year, and watching her slowly fade away from her old self. Hard to deal with, absolutely. And then things got even worse. A fire started in the garage of my aunt/uncle/cousins house on December 18th. 2 of my cousins were at home and sleeping when it happened, and woke up to the smell of the smoke. They managed to get all of the animals out of the house and everyone was safe, but they lost many priceless items in the fire. They had to move into a rental house for what they told would be 3-4 months while the house was fixed up.
Then on December 22nd, my uncle, the same one who’s house had a fire 4 days earlier had a massive heart attack. I’m 100% sure that someone was watching over him that day because the artery that was clogged is called the ‘widow maker’, meaning usually when you have that kind of heart attack you’re dead before you hit the ground. Luckily, very luckily, he happened to be arrive at the hospital in time before he flat lined. If he would have been anywhere but the hospital at that moment he wouldn’t be here today. Truly a miracle.
So, needless to say it was quite an emotional month for everyone… we had some highs and we definitely had some lows, but we all got through it and were more than happy to say sayonara to 2010. It’s now November 2, 2011 and my cousins just moved back into their house last week. 3-4 months turned into 11 months, but they’re just happy to finally be back in their home.
On Halloween they were at their house doing the obvious, passing candy out to trick-or-treaters, when they heard honking out on the street. They got to the front door to see this…
The kids were chanting “welcome home” and gave my aunt Suzanne flowers, and one of the neighbors went to the front door and put down a Welcome doormat down. If that doesn’t tug at your heartstrings I don’t know what will. I definitely had tears in my eyes when I saw this. It is one of those moments that you brings you back down to earth and restores your faith in people all over again. Such a great reminder that really all that matters in this life is your family, friends and the love and support you have for one another.
take it or leave it: Love Actually. Another fantastic holiday flick. One of my favorites... I've probably watched it 15 times. If you haven't seen it (I'm sorry for you) I'll give you a quick snyopsis. It's based in London and follows the love stories - good, bad, happy & sad - of about 8 main characters. One way or another there is a connection to each story, which you'll put together as the movie goes on. It's funny, witty, and you can't help but believe in love when it's over. Watch it!
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