Thanksgiving and time with family in general has much more significance now that I am in college. Being away for extended periods of time, coupled with maturing and acquiring education and skills, allows me to appreciate the members of my family so much more. (Although I do get sick of being bombarded every holiday by questions from my family about why I’m still single, why I’m a Communications major, what my future is, etc., but apparently that’s pretty common for 20-something’s to get from their families, and I know they do it out of love). Regardless, I wish I could spend more than a few times a year with these members of my family. Holidays and the reminder of family also cause me to wish I could be with now the members of my family that have passed away, such as my grandma, who was a sociologist and a world-renowned peace activist, or my aunt, who was the Italian spark of the family and who cared for our wellbeing more than anyone. I would appreciate them and connect with them so much more at this point in my life.

My cousin has two sons, a 2- and 3-year old, who recently moved back home to Ohio with her. I have always been the youngest, and having two little children in the family is something new for me, but it is a total joy. I wish I could spend everyday with them, although I barely see them at all. As my cousins and sister and I move up and make room for a new generation of our family, I am grateful for my ancestry, and will pass what I have inherited from them onto the future of our family.