Written on November 23, 2022

Flu-giving is how we’ll spend Thanksgiving this year. We have one recovered, one in it and three of us playing the waiting game, wondering who will be the next domino to fall.

And yet …

It occurred to me today that my wish to meet and make adult friends in NYC was no longer a wish. A friend bought us an apple crumble that may or may not be shared with the rest of the crew, recognizing we’ve not had the best of years.

Another was willing to shift their morning drop-off plans to take one kid to school on the train so another kid could attend a middle school tour and the third could stay snuggled on the couch.

Others have checked in, offered to lend a hand and have been so gracious when I’ve asked for an assist over these last few years.

Living hours away from family is something I often wrestle with, especially this time of year. I grew up with Traber family functions as they became known, at least once a month if not more. The holidays were particularly hectic, running from Point A to Point B and then back to Point A to warm myself at the fireplace while my uncle sweat profusely from across the room. My time with my extended family was unique and I think it’s fair to say we truly enjoyed each other’s company (or most of each other’s company- after all, there’s always that one). This time of year reminds me that my kids won’t have that same experience.

And yet …

They will have their own stories to tell. Some will be about times just the five of us and others will be about all the helping, funny, kind, generous and empathic people who made us feel like one of their families.

To anyone struggling to find their people, hang in there. They’re out there and it may take some time, a pandemic and/or shared headaches that turn into head shaking stories you’ll look back on together, wondering how you all made it through.

Here’s to another Thanksgiving. May you enjoy a laugh, a little Lysol or perhaps this year, you make it through only to celebrate that feat next year. With or without an apple crumble because we can all agree that pumpkin pie is just trash.