Thanksgiving

This year has brought about so many changes to life. Some good, some not so. But, in this time of giving thanks, I thought that perhaps I'd jot down a few things.

1. Mike - The man of my dreams, love of my life, source of countless happy times and constant rambling. He has gone back to college and is trying so very hard to make it work. And he's succeeding. Grades are fantastic, but that's not the main thing. He CARES. He WANTS to do better. He has found his passion - teaching - and it is so wonderful to see those brown eyes light up with inner satisfaction. I am thankful that my soulmate has found his true calling.

2. "Da Clique" - A wonderful and unique group of friends that cannot truly be explained - they must be experienced. They are fiercely loyal, infinitely compassionate, and just plain ol fun to be with. They are with me in the good times, completely behind me in the bad times, and so much more like family than friends. I am thankful that I am blessed with such an indefinable peer group.

3. Family - Funny things happen when we grow up. We find that "family" isn't just Mom, Dad, Grandpa, Grandma, Uncle, Aunt, Cousin. And there are times that just because someone shares your DNA, it doesn't mean they deserve to be called "family." I have had situations with those that I am "blood-related" to, and I have had a lot of pain and tears because of them. But when something important is taken away, something - somehow and some way - is given to replace it.

And that is how I am blessed. I not only got one family - I got two. The first one is the one I married into. All of them have accepted me, loved me, supported me and welcomed me in their own ways. They make me proud to have their name.

The second one has adopted me as their own. My friend has shared her family with me - so much so that they have started including Mike and me in their family plans. They make sure we get hugs and love just like we belong there. I am thankful for family.

4. New Friends - This year has brought some interesting and colorful (in a good way) people into my world. They are kind, intelligent, giving, and just add a spark of life. Some I met through the rink, some I met at church. All are just a blessing! I am thankful for letting new people in.

5. Church - Coming from my background, I'd expected to never ever be a part of any kind of organized religion again. But through much prayer and discussion, we have finally found a place to worship and feel at home. I actually don't feel like I am not worthy anymore. I am thankful to be able to connect to my maker.

6. Reconnecting - This year has brought me back in touch with some old friends I thought I had lost. But it proves to me that the bonds I made all those years ago were true and strong. I am thankful for being able to go home again.

7. Blessings - I am thankful that Mike quit Kinko's and has gone to school. And somehow we've been able to make it financially. I am thankful for the job that I have, the health we enjoy, and the ability to be able to laugh and fall asleep together at the end of the day.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful thing!!!