Ok, since it's already Thanksgiving Day over here and I'm getting ready to bail out of the office for Turkey Day dinner with about 20 other expats, I thought I'd take the opportunity to wish my OCF Friends a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Take care all and God Bless
Bob

Bob, thanks for starting this thread. Happy Thanksgiving to you and everyone else at OCF.

I remember that the first holiday season after I finished cancer treatment seemed incredibly difficult in so many ways -- but having been through that experience has made me appreciate these holidays (and the family time that comes with them) that much more.

Cathy

Happy Thanksgiving!
I knew it would happen. As our family joined hands around the table (there were only 20 here this year) to say grace, I was unable to get the prayer I had thought about for a week out of my mouth. I think everyone understood - - of all the earthly blessings we've been given, having Tom here and recognizing the gift of family are the very best. I thought of all of you - all over the world - for I give thanks especially for you.
Tom ate a little bit! Joy, Joy.
Nicki

Happy Belated Thanksgiving,

Nicki, I remember a very similar incident on my first Thanksgiving. Where I was, had a tradition of everyone at the table would express what they were thankful for and I was loaded for bear. I was 9 months post surgery and about 6 months post Rad and I had a very looooong list of people, pets, inanimate objects, nature, etc. that I was going to talk about. When it came my time to speak, I opened my mouth and froze, then the floodgates opened and I had leave the table for a few minutes.
The next Thanksgiving, I was more than able to get my list of thanks out and with a big smile on my face.

Jack
++++++++++++
Dx 1-15-97 SCC rt. tonsil & lymph Stg IV, Surgery 1-23-97 tonsillectomy & mod radical neck dissectomy right side, Radiation both sides 35 trtmnts

You know, Jack, I'm a pretty emotional person to begin with - and I'm beginning to feel the pressure of having to be up-beat and confident and happy all the time when around family and friends (and especially Tom.) I was so very thrilled Tom wanted to have all the family that could be with us at our home, which is the usual place for big celebrations. I held a happy face and attitude all day, with that one exception. I know that Tom could not have gotten one word out for himself - - - in recent weeks he has been just too emotional, and I am looking forward to that day when he can look back and vocalize all that he is feeling inside. It would do him a world of good - - and I can guess your heart filled to overflowing when you were able to tell everyone what was in it!
God bless you and may you continue on a healthy road!
Nicki
PS - Tom felt well enough to accompany me to church tonight First time in quite awhile, and it felt wonderful having him with me, my parents and one of my children Such little gifts are HUGE.

Thanks Bob, and happy (late) Thanksgiving to all.

Bob did you get my pictures?

Yes Mark, I'm just terrible at sending mails the last few days. Shot of the Jag on in front of the fall trees made me a bit homesick for home and fall colors.
Bob

Hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving this year. The group pictures from the OCF reunion are up on my frig so you all were given a few prayers while I buzzed around making the turkey and fixens. Had much to be thankful for, especially for the energy to actually cook the dinner this year!! May the reason for the next holiday season touch you all. Love, Kris