It's THAT Time of Year!

Time to think about what we are thankful for. Ideally, we'd do this every day (yes, something else to put on the To Do list, but at least this is kinda fun and makes you fell better.)
So, here we go:

First of all, my family. Always and forever, and always first and foremost.

Maturity. Sort of. I turned 40 this year, and while I still have the mentality of a 12 year-old boy, I do have a much better perspective on things than I did when I was in my 20's and even my 30's. I wouldn't be 25 again for all the money in the world, all the tea in China, or any other cliche. Even if I did have a rockin' bod (which I couldn't see at the time, so, really, what was the point?). Which makes me think, that's how it's supposed to be, right? We make stupid mistakes in our youth, hopefully learn from them, and get smarter as we age. The wrinkles and cellulite seem a small price to pay for the wisdom and peace we gain as we get older, if we allow ourselves to acknowledge and accept it. Granted, we live in a society that despises age, so this can be difficult. (Tangent: does "anti-aging" mean "pro-death?" 'Cause the only way NOT to age is to shuffle off one's mortal coil. Should we be wary of all those face creams?)
And this is coming from someone who cannot stop lamenting the 30 pounds gained in the past 4 years. Or the fact that THEY WON'T GO AWAY!!!!!

Dogs and cats. Especially the ones we have/had. They really do make life better. I've never had a pet iguana or bird, fish, skunk, etc., but I would imagine they add to the quality of life, as well. They have their own distinct personalities, and it's so nice to just hang out with them. When I come home from work, the dog is the only one who rushes to the door to greet me. (Yesterday I gave her a bath; I filled the tub and called her upstairs. When she came up, she took one look at the tub and turned right back around again. I had to lift her up to put her in, and she tried to escape at first, but then she stoically accepted her fate. It's things like this that make the day fun. Plus, she's very protective of/patient with the kids. She is the PERFECT dog for our family, and we are blessed to have her with us.)
And my neighbors cat cracks me up. And sometimes he even lets me pet him!

Therapy. Sometimes it just helps to have someone, a trained professional, to tell you that you're not crazy.

My bloggong buddies. You guys. I feel like we've known each other for years, even though we've never met in person. I don't have many friends close by, and it's so wonderful to know that I can write down my thoughts and you will understand the vague, odd patterings of what's left of my brain. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There's lots more, but I've gotta go give my kids their baths. Have a great Thanksgiving, everyone!