To the Editor:

I am thankful for the gifts in my life, the children who have brought me so much joy, so much emotion. The husband who is there on the other side of the bed every night. The faithful dog who will follow me around no matter my mood and always want to cuddle up with me.

I am thankful for at least one last holiday season that won’t be via video chat with my soon-to-be Marine son. I am thankful for the time spent with my two daughters, even though they will be fighting within two hours of the one who is in college returning home.