Giving Thanks This Thanksgiving

I have so many reasons to be thankful, it’s impossible to list them all. So in the interest of brevity, here are five blessings that I am thankful for this year.

1. Good food. There’s no shame in my game, so I’ll admit it. I love Thanksgiving because there will be some really delicious food on the table. And we don’t do “stuffing” with our turkey...my family makes a cornbread dressing from scratch that is bomb dot com, and we can only have it when we’re making a turkey. So 3 times a year at most. I will eat leftovers several times a day until the food runs out, and I will be grateful for every single bite.
2. A growing family. I don’t want this to sound like I’m bragging, butI have an awesome family. My parents are wise and loving and generous, and they raised me and my 3 sisters with great values. All of my nieces and nephews are beautiful and hilarious. And we’re always adopting more wonderful people into our nuclear family, so the love just multiplies. We’ve got several new people that will be joining us for Thanksgiving this year, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Big holiday dinners are my favorite. And speaking of a growing family...
3. A bun in the oven. My husband and I are expecting our first child--a baby girl that’s set to arrive in early April. (Yes, it’s quite possible that she’ll come on April Fool’s Day, and no, the irony is not lost on me.) She’s not even here yet, but I’m already convinced that she’s beautiful. I’m having an easy, healthy pregnancy, and it just amazes me that there’s a little person growing inside of me. I’m grateful for the opportunity to carry her, nurture her, and be a vessel for new life.
4. Sharing another holiday season with my father. About 6 years ago, my dad was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder that has almost claimed his life several times. But he’s a trooper, and he’s still here, alive and kicking! He’s a living breathing miracle, and I’m grateful for every day I get to share with him. The holidays are even more special because we all get to gather round and pretend to fuss at him for breaking his doctor prescribed diet. Good times…
5. Spiritual awareness. Yes, I’m a devoted Christian, but my spiritual awareness is about more than just my religion. As I get older, I become more aware of my place in this society, in this world, in this universe. It’s both humbling and empowering. So many people walk around without ever giving a thought to who they are, why they exist, and what the point of it all is. I’m grateful for my continuing enlightenment.

I hope that you all are able to share this holiday in good company and celebrate with good food. Wherever you are, whatever you do, please take a moment to reflect and give thanks.

Happy Thanksgiving!