Of Things To Be Thankful For

As I drove into work this morning my mind was racing as I thought of everything that I had to accomplish today. I knew I had a full day of work ahead of me (no chance of ducking out early on this holiday eve) and then I knew I had a full evening. I managed last night to not pack a thing for mine and the kid's trip to Mankato tonight to celebrate Thanksgiving with mom, dad and my Aunt Marg. (Bill won't be with us this year as he works Thanksgiving this year.) We will be with my parents until Saturday afternoon so I don't need a ton of things but I am packing for two kids who tend to get dirty. Plus with cold weather in the forecast, I need to pack jackets, boots, etc. Anyway, it was all a bit overwhelming to think about as I cruised south on Highway 494. Suddenly though something came over me -- maybe it was something I heard on the radio, I don't really know. But all of a sudden I started to make a mental list of all the things I have to be thankful for this year. Here are just a few of the things on my list (in no particular order):

1. The drafty windows and front door of my house. Even though they are about past their lifespan, they are mine and I am reminded that I have a roof over my head and a house to call my own.

2. That favorite pair of jeans in my closet that I refuse to part with because I am determined that I will again fit into them. This reminds me that I have MORE than enough food to eat.

3. The seemingly endless number of car repairs we have had this year. I am reminded I have a car and can still afford to put gas into it.

4. A really good memory. I can use it to remember those who will not be with us at Thanksgiving this year -- in particular my Grandma Huettl who passed away in March and whose absence I am really feeling with the holiday season upon us.

5. A really full in-box in my email accounts. Spam aside I am reminded of the wonderful family and friends near and far who think of me and forward humorous, heartwarming and sometimes serious emails.

At this time of year with all the sales and messages to buy, buy, buy and spend, spend, spend it is so easy to get caught up in the stuff that really doesn't matter and run through the holiday season always looking forward and not living in the moment. I am vowing to enjoy each day and remember this year what really matters. And to think -- I figured that all out on my commute to work this morning. :-)

Happy Happy Thanksgiving to all!