To me, holidays are magic. Sometimes we need something to remind us to celebrate. Yes, even in troubled times. When I was young, Thanksgiving was wild cousins and climbing trees, playing frisbee, a living room full of ticking clocks and candy dishes, a crystal chandelier that I wanted SO much to be my own, hiding in closets, collecting snail shells, Uncle Mark's salsa, mom's stuffing, and dish upon dish of questionable food (that I probably would at least sneak a taste of). My family has moved and shrunk, spreading out over the western states and dying off as people tend to do. It can be lonely. These last three years have been especially rough, what with my health problems. But I am thankful. I have a family that accepts and loves me as I am (loud, weird, sick all the time, covered in makeup, blunt, forgetful, very controlling when it comes to slicing pineapples...). I know my home is a safe place for me and those I love. My friends took such good care of me when I had no clothes that fit and money was super tight. Michael has worked hard to keep us housed. I have three amazing super weird cats that love me. My car still runs. My voice is still strong. Holidays are still magic. The extra love floating around me right now is dedicated to everyone holding their ground at Standing Rock. It's going out to all the people who do not have a safe home to go to. It's protecting rape survivors who feel unsafe. Feeling despair? Lost? Here's some extra love for you. If you need it, it's here. #thanksgiving #holidaymagic #notcelebratinggenocide #celebratingfamilyandfriends #awishforyou