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Embracing life’s fullness: Family, home and gratitude

Have you ever experienced a time when your heart felt full overflowing with emotions you couldn’t contain? That’s exactly how I feel as I sit down to write today. There are several reasons for this overwhelming sense of well-being, and I’d love to share them with you.

First and foremost, I just returned from a week at the beach with my entire family. For those who have tried to coordinate a trip with adult children and their little ones, you know how nearly impossible it can be to get everyone in the same place for an extended time. But we made it happen! The weather was unseasonably warm for October, which gave us the perfect backdrop for a week of digging in the sand, splashing in the ocean, bike riding, kite flying, shopping, crafting, and of course, enjoying plenty of good food.

Throughout the week, I found myself sitting on the sidelines, watching my family with happy tears welling up in my eyes. How could such simple moments–siblings catching up, cousins playing, and grandchildren running into my arms shouting “Nana, Nana!”–touch me so deeply? It was a powerful reminder of how important family is, not just to me, but to each other. Watching everyone care for one another, especially the children, was heartwarming. The groups would change depending on the day or activity, but love and watchfulness were always present. We couldn’t let our guard down, especially with the brave little ones who would charge into the crashing waves, only to get tumbled under. Constant vigilance was necessary, especially with seven grandchildren, all under the age of seven!

Before you start imagining a picture-perfect, stress-free vacation, let me be honest–there were a few bumps along the way. One grandchild arrived sick, and another needed a trip to urgent care. Thankfully, both rallied and were able to enjoy the rest of the trip. I think it’s important to share the challenges, too. In the age of social media, it’s so easy to project a flawless image of family life. But please, don’t fall into the trap of comparing your life to what you see online. Every family has its struggles–some people just choose to hide theirs.

Another reason for my sense of fulfillment came during the drive home. As we passed through the Lewistown Narrows, I felt a familiar sense of comfort and peace. There’s something so welcoming about those two mountains with the Juniata River winding between them. The fall leaves were starting to show their colors, and I knew I was home.

The very next morning, I was back to reality and returned to work, leading the Chamber Leadership Institute’s “History, Heritage, & Architecture” Day. Even though I’ve been involved in this event many times, it never fails to leave me with a renewed appreciation for our local history and a deep gratitude for the passionate individuals who have devoted themselves to preserving and enriching our community. It’s always inspiring to watch the students finish the day with a newfound appreciation for the place they call home, as well as respect for those who have invested time and resources into preserving, improving, and beautifying the Juniata River Valley.

I’ll wrap up by sharing one final reason for my deep gratitude today — my ever-faithful companion, Finley. He’s my nine-year-old Labradoodle, and for those who are dog lovers, you’ll understand what I’m about to say. For those who aren’t, just bear with me. Before I left for vacation, I noticed a worrying lump on Finley and rushed him to the vet. I didn’t want to leave if there was a serious issue, and the vet shared my concern, prescribing medication and scheduling a follow-up appointment to discuss possible surgery, after my return. I almost canceled the trip but knew he was in good hands with my dog sitter, so I left with a heavy heart.

Today was the recheck, and I’m relieved to report that Finley’s prognosis is good! I know he’s “just a dog,” but he’s my dog and a wonderfully loyal one at that. Every time I look into those expressive eyes, I can’t help but feel incredibly lucky to have such a faithful companion by my side.

Looking back, it’s these connections — with family, home, community, and even with my dog — that have filled my heart to overflowing. Life isn’t perfect, but when we pause and reflect, there’s always so much to be grateful for. To quote Maya Angelou, “Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer.”

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Rhonda S. Kelley is the executive director of the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce.

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