Heart of the Home

Image Gallery

A Letter From Kate

Dear Readers,

This year, as I think about gratitude, many things come to mind. Most of all, I am thankful for my family. I have a beautiful daughter and a wonderful husband whom I can't imagine my life without. And I am grateful for my mother, father, sister and nephews. They're always just a phone call away, to give me a laugh or reassurance whenever I need it. I'm also very lucky to have married into a terrific family. Their love and support is invaluable, and they have accepted me as one of their own.

As I've said before, I'm extremely grateful for my circle of friends. Although they live in different cities and states, they truly enrich my life. Not a week goes by that I don't get a phone call, e-mail or visit from one of them. They always seem to know when I need a heart-to-heart talk with a girlfriend or when I have a story I can't wait to tell. We share secrets, advice and pep talks, and I love each of them dearly. This year, I had the good fortune of adding my friend Nikki to the group of women I hope will always be a part of my life.

The events of this year have made me realize how thankful I am for my home. I've never really considered how fortunate I am to have a comfortable house, where I am surrounded by things that make me happy. I am safe, I have more than enough clothes to wear, and I never have to worry about going hungry.

My heart goes out to the people affected by the hurricanes. Seeing their pain and suffering made me even more thankful this year for what I have. I have been humbly reminded of basic needs I might not have thought about before, such as having a roof over my head, food to eat, and clothing and shoes to wear. I have learned that I should take nothing for granted, and I should be thankful every day.

I hope that you can take a moment to reflect on what you're most thankful for this year. Have a wonderful and peaceful Thanksgiving.

Together With God

What makes Thanksgiving the memorable occasion that it is? It might be the time the turkey burned, or the year the twins were born, the first time that Grandpa wouldn't be there, or the year that you cooked your first turkey dinner from scratch.

For the victims of the recent hurricanes, Thanksgiving this year will hold thankful prayers of their survival. We are so fortunate when so many are rebuilding their lives from scratch.

Father, thank You for another Thanksgiving holiday, complete with all of the blessings of family, friends and good food. Bless those caught in the storms to find hope and happiness. May this season give us memories of the celebration of life and a better tomorrow. Amen.