Some things are so vivid in my mind. I grew up in a small house (less than 1,700 sq. feet) in Northern Wisconsin with eight brothers and sisters. We were poor; my mother was a school teacher and my father a laborer. I was number six of nine children. I was witty and challenging to my parents, but they taught us humility and obedience. I don't remember a time I didn't feel sorry for them-their lot in life and how they did their best to love and care for all of us. Each Thanksgiving my mother would make hot dogs. I remember asking her why we didn't have turkey like everyone else and she told me not to question what I didn't understand. Now I realize hot dogs were cheap; she could buy them in the summer and freeze them. Since we never had them any other time they were exotic. The first Thanksgiving that we had turkey was when our priest, Father John, brought one to our home. My mother was flabbergasted. She hated accepting charity, but she didn't want to disappoint the priest. It took her and my father to roast it, and all of us kids just sit in the kitchen and watched her fix it. We couldn't believe our good fortune. I have since become a vegetarian, but I can tell you I have never tasted such a great turkey.

My mother died in 2002. One of my best memories was listening to her talk about that big turkey. Such a novel event for her and she was so grateful. This gratefulness made her strong. She used this memory when times were bad and reminded us of the goodness of others. She used this memory when she felt "unappreciated" by others. This one simple act of someone's kindness affected my whole family.

There is a connection between appreciation and happiness. When you appreciate another person you value them and you also give hope to everyone around you. The appreciated person feels grateful and happy and you feel fortunate that this person is in your life. Most of us don't work for money, we work for appreciation. Why not start appreciating now? Have you told others how much you appreciate them? When is the last time you hugged your husband and told him you appreciated the way he treated you and your children?

Are you a student? Have you thanked your teachers who have made a difference? Maybe you are a professional, have you thanked your secretaries and co-workers? Blue collar workers-have you thanked your boss or anyone that helps clear your path so you can do your job? Have you thought about who you appreciate? Appreciation is one of the few gifts we can give each other and it comes right back to you. Make a memory. Tell someone how much you appreciate them and then watch their eyes. Don't forget that look in their eyes. Make it your memory to use when times are difficult or life is cruel.

Blessings to you in this season of Thanksgiving! I am grateful that I can write each week and I appreciate the comments you make. You inspire me, and I want to do more for you.