Sorry I didn’t post this earlier — life just got in the way.
It’s time for Thanksgiving!
Since getting married, Thanksgiving has become one of my favorite holidays. I adore dthe traditional atmosphere at my in-law’s house, which is very different from the Thanksgiving I grew up celebrating. The food, the environment—EVERYTHING!
I love this holiday because it gives me a chance to express my gratitude and reflect on my wonderful family.
First, my husband—he’s been such a blessing. He not only takes care of my and Gideon’s physical needs but is also there for us emotionally as I navigate this postpartum journey and learn what it means to be a mom. Gideon is discovering this big, beautiful world, and wow, is he thriving! He really is the greatest gift to his dad and me. Chris has been our rock, our safe space, and our guiding light. I couldn’t have asked for a better husband or a more perfect dad for our little pumpkin.
Another person I’m endlessly thankful for is someone who doesn’t always get the recognition she deserves: my caretaker, my friend, my other ride-or-die, Sommer. She stepped right into the role of auntie/grandma without hesitation and is just as crazy about Gideon as we are. I can’t even begin to express how grateful I am for this amazing woman!
To the new grandparents, this is your daughter speaking. You know the mother of the child you adore! Haha! Honestly, whenever I see my parents with Gideon, my heart is full of love and gratitude. We are so lucky to spend so much quality time with them, especially when Chris is working on the house, as they take care of both me and the baby. Watching them become grandparents has been an absolute joy for me.
I am also very grateful for my two incredible sisters. They are both strong, wise, selfless, and remarkable women. I’m excited to see how far they go. And they’re truly amazing—Tia’s to Little Squish! I feel so proud and thankful to call them my sisters!
Additionally, I love this holiday because it reminds me that I live in a country and community where a disabled immigrant woman can achieve anything she sets her mind to! There will always be limitations in front of me. I’m not naive about that. However, in 90% of other countries, disabled communities are shunned, cast aside, and even harmed.
Not here in the U.S. of A!!! Is the system perfect? Hell no!!! Is there room for improvement? ABSOLUTELY!! I’ve had to advocate for myself since I was 18, like a dog with a bone, as if the wheelchair didn’t give it away. Despite that, I’m incredibly grateful to have a voice and the opportunity to stand up for myself. And now, I can advocate for my son if needed.
Thank you, Heavenly Father, for blessing me with such an incredible family, for meeting all my needs and fighting for me. I don’t deserve it, but you do it anyway.
Nissi Demboski 