I'm Thankful

This is the time of year that we are all reminded that there is much to be thankful for. This sentiment is not lost on me this year. For sure not this year. I am truly thankful for so much. Some of the things I am appreciative of are obvious and heartfelt. Other things that I am thankful for are flying low. Under the radar. Here's a little taste.

It almost goes without saying, but I am so grateful for my family and friends. This year has been a turbulent one. No pity party here, though. We made it. We have overcome. And we survived the tragedies mostly unscathed. I remember hearing that when a bone breaks it actually heals stronger. I think that is a perfect metaphor for my family and how we have healed and continue to heal.

I am thankful for blogging and texting. Yes, you read right. The written word is powerful. In all forms. This past year I have been able to stay in touch with all of you by writing. There were times that it would have been physically impossible to make enough phone calls, or to write enough notes. Emotionally it would have drained me. So I am so very thankful for technology.

I am thankful for a roof over my head and a comfy bed. Some days that is how I enjoyed my home. I wasn't in it much at times. But I did crash here. Literally. I needed a warm, safe place to refuel and relax. This is what my home did for me. Even if I only spent eight or so hours in it at a time.

I am thankful for coffee. It wakes me up in the same way each day. I can always count on it. I would also like to honorably mention Culver's. For feeding my family in a pinch. And Bath and Body Works for keeping my skin soft. I would like to thank my public library and Barnes and Noble for keeping my brain entertained.

And last, but not least, I am thankful for two furry creatures that are glad to see me each and every time I come through the door. They take me out for walks even when I don't feel like going. They make sure I stay warm as they cuddle up against me while we sleep. They make me laugh and are loyal beyond words.

Big or small, there are so many people, things and opportunities that I am thankful for. I am humbled and blessed. Happy Thanksgiving.

The Gift That Keeps On Giving

So Christmas is 43 days away. I know this because somehow Halloween happened and Thanksgiving is around the corner. And because I was at the mall this weekend and the decorations are everywhere. As well as the invitations to buy gifts for everyone I love. Sales were happening everywhere. But come on. It was 60 degrees out and the sun was shining. I was having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that Christmas is really that close.

My list of people to buy for is small. And I won't be giving away what I am buying and possibly making for them. But here is the gift that I often purchase. It fits all different sizes. It can make you laugh. It can make you cry. You may be educated by it. You may enjoy it on your own or with others. You don't have to have electricity to run it. And this gift can be passed on and shared with others.

Books. I do love a book store. I spent some time in one this weekend. I found myself wandering from section to section getting more and more intrigued every minute. To read is actually a form of meditation for me. I read best when it's quiet. When I am in a comfy chair. Maybe covered in a soft blanket. Perhaps sipping a warm coffee, tea or cider. It's time to leave the hustle and bustle of life and lose yourself in the pages of times gone by. Or of the future. Or of a topic that you are just learning about. I love fact and fiction. I certainly love to learn about people and what makes them tick.

As I was purchasing my books, I thought of how I could hardly wait to get home and start reading. The clerk asked if I would think about donating books to children in the area. I didn't hesitate. What a small price to pay to continue this age old form of entertainment and enrichment. And it got me to thinking that I may do more gift buying this season and yes, it may involve books.

Books are gifts that keep on giving. You can read books and learn. You may be entertained. And the best part is you can share the gift. Over and over. Books are easy to wrap. They are easy to send. They come in all topics and sizes. Good luck with your shopping and gift giving. Mine is sure to be a page turner.

Fielding Phone Calls

I have no time to write this week. My apologies. I'm very busy answering political phone calls. Looking forward to next week. See you then.