It truly was a Happy Thanksgiving!

Our family had so much to be thankful on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2011 (as we do every single day, of course!).

I explained to the doctor on Wednesday that, if at all possible, it was vitally important to have Mom and Dad present when our family gathers. There is no measure of the love and respect we all share, and it starts with the two of them! When I told him that, it was obvious that he understood and respected our wishes. He followed through with his commitment to see Dad at the beginning of his rounds Thursday morning and discharged him in time to have lunch with our family! That, in itself, was amazing! We've been so impressed with this hospital and its staff! The paperwork for the discharge was completed, Mom was packed and a wheelchair was already in the room when Danny and Lisa got there around 10:30. Mom and Dad followed Danny and Lisa and arrived at Jean and Jimmie's house about 11:45! Everyone was overjoyed in greeting them!

Mom and Dad were all smiles and their spirits were high! Dad still looked a little pale, but he did lose a lot of blood during this ordeal. It will take his body a little while to recuperate. We snacked until about 1:30,awaiting Whitney and Austin arrival. Austin had been with his Daddy for a few days until then. We gathered in the kitchen, said our family prayer and dug in to delicious turkey and dressing, so loving prepared by Jean and LaRose, and all the other wonderful foods that the rest of us added to the feast.

We were so fortunate to have a gorgeous day and most of us spent a good portion of it sitting out on the porch and visiting. Once Dad had a full stomach, he took a great nap and then joined us on the porch also!

It was a very laid-back day, full of love and thankfulness and togetherness! Mom and Dad headed home about 4:30. Dad was looking forward to getting in his recliner! Mom told me later that he let out a great big "Ah" when he sat in it! He slept until about 11:00 Friday morning too! There's nothing quite like being in your own bed!

We're all letting them have a nice, quiet weekend, but are checking on them often. Mom had plenty of food in the freezer that only had to be thawed and heated, so she won't have to do any major cooking and they won't have to go out unless that's what they choose to do. I'll bet they won't want to leave the house for a few days! Can't say that I blame them!!

It is with grateful heart that I know you will continue to keep Mom and Dad in your prayers. Know that you are also in mine!

Oh Lord, You are the only source of health and healing, the spirit of calm and the central peace of this universe. Grant to Mildred and Harvey Smith health and strength and peace, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.