Beautifully and thoughtfully written, Kristen.  This year we celebrated at our Granddaughter's home with her parents (Cynthia and Jim) and her husband, aunt, step-daughter and baby.  Cynthia's oldest daughter is in Hawaii leading bicycle tours.  Daughter Sharon celebrated at her home in CA but one son was on a Carribbean cruise with his girl friend and her family.  Son Don and his wife had their 3 children at home and they celebrated together.  I'm thankful for telephones and photos via e-mail to keep in touch.   No matter what your age, "family can take so many forms and fill our voids in so many ways."  Thanks for your excellent blog.  Mary