What? It’s Nearly Thanksgiving? And It’s 2006?

Wasn’t it just Thanksgiving, like… a few months ago? I just can’t believe it’s that time of year again. My wife has just reminded me how we’re leaving for Florida in exactly a month for Christmas. Where does the time go?

With Thanksgiving coming up I thought I would make a little list of things I’m thankful for this year. My family use to do this before my grandmother passed away 6 years ago - she would make everybody say at least 6 things they were thankful for (if you happened to be in the house when she initiated it.) We would all cringe at this crazy tradition, sometimes being a little too obnoxious with our answers. When her turn came around she would always name her 6 kids (my 5 uncles and my mom) for giving her a huge family and then make some funny joke.
My family no longer gets together every Thanksgiving, every uncle does their own thing with their kids and grandkids; it’s just not possible to have one large dinner anymore. Now that I have a little family I miss those large family get-together days. This year, we’re spending it with my uncle’s (#5) family and my brother’s family.

Thankful for:

The Wife- It was nine years ago this week that I met her in Paris (yes, France) and after 7 years of marriage, it was the best decision I’ve ever made.

My Daughter- I never imagined how amazing being a parent could possibly be. I find myself just staring at her, entranced by her curiosity, growth, and the person who she will eventually become. It’s both exciting and a little intimidating.

Friends – Somewhere along the way, I got lucky. (Even the dude who likes facials and pedicures.)

Extended Family – My side of the family has grown by leaps and bounds, and as I get older I’m thankful that they’re not too far away (but far away enough). My wife’s side of the family is everywhere - which makes for great places to visit.

Job/Immediate Co-Workers – Some days I still can’t believe I get paid for what I do (But I never let my boss and his boss know that.) I also have the privilege of working with some of the most talented artists in the world. Even though I was somehow chosen to lead them, most of the time I feel as if they're leading me.

Colonel Sanders Secret Recipe – Because that chicken is what dreams are made of (I couldn’t end this without a KFC reference, people would start thinking I was loosing my mind, or worse getting “all emotional”.)

Happy Thanksgiving Ya'll!


Some interesting links I’d like to share from other bloggers:
MetroDad writes a very good “serious note” about the anger in people these days and tells people to chill.
Mr.BigDubya gets a new family addition
Ruth Dynamite gives some advice about getting distracted and eating anything bigger than your head.
Redneck Mommy (T) on marriage.
Mrs. Chicky is thankful for Leonardo (not Da Vinci.)