By Dawn Blusher

I recently traveled to Georgetown, Texas, to visit my folks. This was not an ordinary visit for several reasons. You see, they had moved there from Austin at the beginning of the summer. It was the first time I visited them to see the new home. 

Their home was wonderful — large enough for both of them plus all four of their kids to eat and visit. And we did. It was a wonderful reunion for us all.

Many of us traveled there while others prepared for the visit. Our family is loud, silly and full of opinions, and we all love to eat. It wasn’t long before their new home became “home” for me. 

My first sister and brother live nearby Mom and Dad; this is a blessing to me. They help them with small and large tasks, especially while moving. We are thankful they give so generously.

A more important reason for the trip was to honor my father on his 80th birthday. He’s the first in his family to finish college, and he returned to school in his 40s to receive his master’s degree. He served our nation starting in the Korean War until retirement in the mid-1980s. He’s succeeded to enjoy one loving marriage, four children and eight grandchildren — so many milestones. 

On this visit, my sister Sandy and I made silly T-shirts that had ironed-on photos of Dad with us and added funny captions like “I’m his favorite” and “Daddy loves me most.” We sat with him sandwiched in between us to stress the point. He was full of joy as we fought for his attention. His grin was contagious. I am thankful to have shared this special birthday with my family.

And then, there in the driveway stood Dad and Mom about to say goodbye in full Apel family style. “Yahoo” was yelled for all to hear as I pulled away. 

Each time I visit, I have an enormous sense of gratitude and appreciation to these two people who had given me so much of themselves and who had so fashioned my life. Mom, Dad, I love you.

I am thankful for all the gifts I have received from my parents. I am thankful for the gifts I am able to bring to my family and blessed to see those gifts demonstrated in my sons.

Dawn Blusher is the manager of the Love INC thrift store.