The onset of the holidays always beckons the heart home. It will always be the place where the family is and the place in which many fond memories have occurred. As the dawn of Thanksgiving arrives, I find myself wanting to sit at my aunt’s table, surrounded by the family and friends I have known my entire life. Laugh at the many conversations that are unexpected and oftentimes very difficult to forget. The stuffing cooking in the turkey, pumpkin pies tempting us knowing we have to wait until after the meal. But the most important thing is that we are among those that have supported us, respected us and accepted us for who we truly are. Even when those people were not family, they have always been treated as if they were. I write this for family and there are not words to express the gratitude I hold. But I am sure they know what I mean to say.
Sadly, I will not be able to make it this year, but my heart will be there none the less. I have been in Florida for three months now and have spent that time making it home. Just my dog Hobie and I, the small piece of home I have brought with me. He is someone to come home to and reason to enjoy every day. Work is going well, and I work with a good crew. Hobie has a nice yard to spend his days in when I am not around and impresses people everywhere he goes with how well behaved he is. I cannot deny that it makes me very proud of the “Little Prince.” He is a good way to meet new people. There is a wonderful dog beach in which he has been introduced to the ocean, and dog parks when he just needs a place to stretch his legs. He is getting along with other dogs well and it making some friends. His ball is still his best friend, but I don’t expect that to change.
So my Thanksgiving shall be spent with a family that I just met, ironically through the dog. I can only hope they are as inviting as my family has always been. Being in the Coast Guard does not always allow me to be home, or even where I want to be. But like I have said before, I chose this adventure. I have seen some amazing things. I am grateful to have my one piece of home here, a roof over my head, and a job I enjoy doing. To my Family and Friends, wherever you may be; I wish you a wonderful, memorable and safe Thanksgiving.
