A time to be thankful

During this time of year, we should all take stock of the people in our lives that we are thankful for. For me, many of those are obvious. I am so thankful for my amazing wife and incredible children. I could not ask for more.

I am so grateful for all the special friendships in my life that all mean so much to me. As an only child, I think friendships are even more important. I know many of my friends are as close as family.

But today, I want to acknowledge a family that has been so important to me for more than 15 years. On November 29th, Nikki and I will celebrate our 15th anniversary. It is hard to believe how quickly the time has passed. It seems like just yesterday that we just began dating. We were both coming off painful divorces and both cautious about letting someone else into our hearts. Thankfully, we both took a chance.

I can only imagine what Nikki’s parents were thinking when 30-year-old Nikki showed up at their house with 44-year-old me. I am sure I was not what they were envisioning for their daughter. I would not have blamed them for not wanting to welcome me.

To the contrary, after some initial cautiousness, they have treated me with so much kindness. They were wonderful with my mother, so loving to my children, and so kind to me. They are a blessing to me.

Nikki’s dad, who kept his feelings close to the vest, became my friend. We had breakfast together and many serious conversations about life, that I still appreciate. He welcomed Garret and Chelsey and found common ground to connect with them. He became good friends with my Uncle Tom and my dear friend Wayne. He let me see the best of him. He even let both Garret and Chelsey take his Mercedes convertible to the prom! Not sure I would have done that. I miss Rick.

Nikki’s mother Barb reminds me so much of my grandmother. My dad’s mother was an incredible cook, hard worker, and totally selfless. Barb is sweet and kind. She lives her life for others and has embraced my kids into her family. She treats everyone the same and none of us can ever live up to her service to others. Barb shows up for people and always for her family.

Nikki is blessed with two brothers and one sister who are all great people. The youngest of the group is her brother Caleb who is an amazing dentist in New Philadelphia, Ohio. I owe Caleb a lot. He made a real effort to get to know me in the beginning and made me feel welcome. I value his friendship greatly. His smarts and quick wit are undeniable.

Her brother Clay and sister Angel have also been great to me. I was quickly “Uncle Buddy” to their kids, which meant a lot to me. I appreciate them both so much and have enjoyed getting to know them more and more.

I am thankful for the Robinson clan. I am proud to be a part of it. Holidays are sometimes difficult for me. Most of “my people” are gone. But it certainly is a blessing to be one of their people. They have made my life better.

As an only child, I must admit that I am envious of Nikki for having siblings that she loves and admires. Their bond is apparent and special. It is something I wish I had.

Thank you Rick, Barb, Clay, Angel, Caleb and their families for welcoming me and allowing me to invade the party.