Happy Thanksgiving

Here we are, and it is Thanksgiving again. I have a great deal to be thankful for, even though I sometimes dwell on the frustrations of life. The economy has been rough and our financial situation could certainly be better; but we have secure and stable jobs. We don't have to worry about being unemployed (unless the Idaho Tea Partiers succeed in doing away with public education). I have a wonderful class this year, and good people to work with. My job is difficult, but there are very few people who have a job as important as mine. Despite what the legislators think, I have a job that really matters and changes the world. I am thankful for that opportunity to touch the future.

I have been blessed with a wonderful family. Mom is still in good health, Diana is doing better with her back fusion all the time, and Bailee is a delight. We couldn't ask for a better child. She has wonderful friends, varied interests, and she makes great choices in her life. She keeps us all very busy, but that is a blessing as well! Living together as we do, things could be so much more complicated. I am thankful that we have found a way to make this multi-generational household not only work, but work well. We love one another, and we support one another. What could be better?

We're safe in our warm home today. Preparations are being made for our dinner. The blizzard is over, and we came through just fine. Granted, I don't get to enjoy much of the feast today thanks to a tooth extraction that had complications, but I am thankful for drugs that help me to endure the pain and discomfort. I am also thankful for a tolerant family that takes care of me. After six days of this, I am sure they are sick of me. Heck, I'm sick of me!

The holidays are about to start, and we seem assured of a white Christmas. I'll be able to get into the dentist to deal with my dental issues (as opposed to dealing with the symptoms) next week, so I can see a light at the end of this painful tunnel. We have some ideas on how to make the most of our finances, and there may even be a way to get Bailee her dream Christmas gift. Life is pretty good all in all, and I'm pretty thankful.