My oldest daughter, Katelyn, walked in the house after having lunch out with her friends today.

“It smells good in here,”  she said.

“Like what?”  I asked.

“Family” she said.

My heart wanted to explode.  Such a simple, yet profoundly meaningful statement from my 17 year old daughter.  In a little over a year she will be off to college.  I think that is why her statement struck me so strongly.  It brought tears to my eyes.  Happy tears.  Thankful tears.  Grateful tears.  One simple statement that sums up my entire parenting philosophy.  For my kids to feel Loved.  Safe.  Accepted.  Valued.  Respected.  Comfortable.  Happy.

Here, at home.

Family.

It smells like family.

Tomorrow I will host 30 people.  My home will be bustling with food, fellowship, love and laughter.  (And of course, lots of wine!)

My heart will be full.

We will have an empty chair but his presence will be felt.  In all our memories.  Eating my green bean bundles that he loved (the only green beans he would eat!)  Drinking a bourbon and 7-up.  The first one to the dessert table.  And back again.  And again.  Smiling his warm, beautiful smile.  Telling jokes.  Playing with his grandkids.  Watching football with Cody.  Snoozing on my sofa, holding my mom’s hand.  Telling me what an amazing job I had done.  I can still see him, hear him, smell him.

It smells like family.

My wish is that your home always smells like family.  In whatever fashion that may be for you.

Happy Thanksgiving and many blessings and love to you all!