Giving Thanks

There is not a day that goes by that I don't acknowledge how fortunate I am. This is the time of year when we traditionally count our blessings and give thanks for what we have. I have so much to be grateful for. It isn't just stuff, although I certainly don't lack for anything. We have lived in our "dream house" for 30 years, a house that we had built when the kids were little and we lived on a single income, a teacher's salary. But we managed, and much more, raising our kids here and, over time, creating our garden paradise. It is our refuge. Our two children have grown into wonderful adults, and we have enjoyed sharing in that growing up process, learning along with them. We have two beautiful and loving grandchildren. While we don't see them as much as we'd like, technology keeps us close. We have large, extended families with which to share celebrations and passages. My mother is still able to participate in the lives of her ever-expanding family. In this time of financial crisis, we are relieved to be on a "fixed" income, enjoying the fruit of many years of labor in public education. We have shared our lives with many children and colleagues, many of whom remain friends. Most of all, Tom and I have each other. Now in our 40th year of marriage, we have shared home building, child rearing, our professions, and our love of gardening. Now we are travel partners, crossing oceans or just across town, sharing experiences great and small. Some of you have commented that I seem peaceful, content, that I have a great life. I do. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.