It’s 10:05PM on Thanksgiving Day–I’ve got less than two hours to write my List of Thanks for the year.  Without further ado…

I’m thankful that I am so tired.  I’m tired because I helped my 88-year old Gramma Ruby throw a Thanksgiving Day to beat all Thanksgiving Days…fifteen years after her husband died, on Thanksgiving Day.  I am thankful to spend time with her and listen to her stories…and soak up her recipes and techniques.  That generation still has so much to teach us before they pass, we need to keep up with them.

I’m thankful that I had two grandmothers for as long as I did.  Grandma Marcy was buried on Tuesday.  I was able to see her the weekend prior to her passing and say goodbye.  I inherited her glowing skin for which I am grateful.  I think I also inherited some of her steely edge.  I’m not sure if I’m thankful for that.

I’m thankful for Grendel.  He’s my dog.  He’s furry and funny.  He loves me.  He’s my soft and sassy sidekick.  More than that, he is my constant companion and my dependent.  I need him more than he needs me.  Much, much more.  Plus, he doesn’t snore.

I’m thankful for my family…every single member of it.  I’ve received so much support and love from them in what has been a tough year; probably my toughest.  I know I can count on them for anything. 

I’m thankful for my friends.  Weddings, babies, reunions, online interactions, coffees, walks, dinner parties, trips to Costco, CSA Tuesdays, late night showings of “New Moon,” rock picking, road trips, birthday surprises, freelancing gigs, and so much more in this past year…including forcing my hand to start blogging.  I thrive because of you.  You are the village that raises me.

I’m thankful for our current political administration and that I am not destitute since losing my job.  I can defer my student loans.  I can continue my medical insurance coverage at a reduced rate.  I am able to search for a job while being able to pay (most) of my bills.  I am once again proud of our country and look forward to seeing us be able to continue to take care of our own…as well as bring home our own.

I’m thankful for the breadth and depth of my abilities.  I am lovable and capable.  I do not doubt that I will continue to succeed, regardless of employment status.  May I never lose that faith.

Let me rephrase that: May I never lose faith.

I’m thankful for faith.

Happy Thanksgiving.