Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday. We all know the history behind it and why it is a historically recognized event. But more than that, it gives us the opportunity to acknowledge all of the blessings in our lives that we may take for granted on a day-to-day basis. I am so lucky to be able to spend my holiday seasons with my incredible family. We have a pretty large family so we see different bits and pieces of the family at different times of the year. As much as the holidays can bring out the worst in some individuals, they can also result in some of life’s most cherished memories.

Thanksgiving always reminds me of my aunt Ginny. She was one of the most influential individuals in my life. There were so many things about her that drove people up the walls during the holidays, but those were the exact qualities that I admired so much. She was quirky, adventurous, intellectual and perceived life in a way that I thought was utterly inspirational.

Every Thanksgiving with her was unforgettable. My great grandma has a famous Dutch apple pie recipe that is to die for. As my great grandmother has aged (she is 95 now!) it’s become progressively more difficult for her to make the pie. My aunt took over the task for a few years and definitely did the recipe justice. Ginny was also part of the fuel to many of the fires that erupted at Thanksgiving table, but I wouldn’t have traded her ragingly passionate opinions for the world.

Unfortunately, in 2012 I lost my incredible aunt to cancer. I was absolutely devastated. Yet, despite the fact that I lost her as well as several other important individuals in my life, I can still feel their presence and I love seeing small little signs from Heaven in my life. When she passed, I was 16 and she left me her car. I am still convinced that she was looking out for me when I got into a terrible car wreck a year later, and everyone involved walked away practically unscathed. No matter the symbols and signs and how you interpret them, those beyond this Earth continue to touch our lives.

We should always remember and appreciate the lasting impression that our lost loved ones have installed in our lives. Thanksgiving is just a great opportunity to love all of the family and friends surrounding you both physically and spiritually.