Thanksgiving

A day to be thankful for what we have. Today I am thankful for the following:

C: Yeah, sometimes we get on each other's nerves, stress each other out, annoy one another to the point of pure irritation. But 10-30 minutes later we're back to laughing, loving and enjoying one another. He gets me most of the time, understands where I'm coming from. He knows me better than anyone else and I don't think I'd have it any other way.

M: I can't believe that I was seen fit enough to have the miracle of this girl in my life, let alone the honor of being her mother. Yes, I freely admit that the first 4 years of her life were HARD, but to see how far she's come and to see the person she's grown into I can't help but feel blessed. I don't think I've met another child that cares for everyone the way she does. She's generous, compassionate, loving.

A: Now this guy is a kick in the pants. Boy howdy! I'm so thankful that he can see the funny side of things. He's light-hearted, relaxed, a great snuggler. He keeps my toes warm by sitting on my feet, he still gets scared of things but will put up his "brave boy" facade and charge through. He laughs from the bottom of his belly and brings smiles to my face daily.

My family: Through thick and thin they're still my family and I'm still thankful for each of them. This includes Dad, S, N, their families, C's family - T, S, L & S and their families. I'm thankful for each of these people in my life and the ways they have shaped me to be who I am today.

My job: Yes, I said my job. I am thankful for it. Without it I wouldn't be sitting here today. I love the work I do, just not always the people I have to do it with. I've learned a lot about "the real world" at this job more than any other. And for that I am thankful.

My friend K: My lunch buddy. She has given me a different perspective on life to contemplate. While we're a lot alike, we're also quite different. She's a sounding board when life gets frustrating and I hope that I don't gripe too often. We laugh about our families, our jobs, TV shows. She's so caring and supportive and I'm glad I can call her my friend.

My net friends: I've known some of these ladies longer than I've known my kids. They've been a great support in the tough times knowing I'm not alone in the struggles of day to day living. I hope I can have many more years of their friendship and wisdom. I'm thankful for their perspectives, their parenting wisdom, their world views and for hopefully learning from them to become a better person, parent and friend.

And lastly, my gamer friends: Q, Tae, Ank, Zuk, Gonz and the many others over the years... thanks for letting this girl take part in the fun and feel like one of the gang. Some of these guys are like family, some like family you can't tell anyone about (ahem tae). I'm glad I've gotten to know them and have them be part of our lives.

May this day bring good food, warm memories, and a chance to become a better person.