Yup, a time to give THANKS (but, I guess that should be everyday, not just this week) -----
to your point though --- while holidays bring joy ------ it can, for many, bring more stress, sadness and reflection of all sorts.
As you may have seen, found out a few days ago that a very close childhood friend ---- and, my USMC 'enlistment buddy' ------ moved to hospice care. He's been ill for an extended period of time (mostly impacted from Agent Orange exposure), so not a total shock. But, this is a tough one ! :-(
As an old friend once told me, and it rings so true so often......
Death is never convenient !
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Travel safe Ms. D ----- enjoy your stay in the beautiful U.S.A. !!!! :-D