Besides Cool Gifts...I Am Thankful For...

1)My family. Of course! Every year it seems the holidays get smaller, people get older, more and more people say "it doesn't feel like Christmas." I am thankful mostly for my mom who "Griswolds" the house every year, bakes cookies and goodies until all surfaces are covered with goodie trays while she makes every attempt to keep Christmas alive. She is an awesome lady.

2)My health. This year, I was diagnosed with skin cancer and in an instant life changed. Yes, it makes you adjust your values, gain a new perspective on life and regret those days tanning in the hot sun or tanning bed. More though, it makes you change the way you do things every day...the choices you make. You realize what is really worth stressing over and what isn't. I am healthy now and thankful for my doctor, an amazing surgeon and everyone else who made the experience less frightening.

3)The things I have accomplished. I finished graduate school!!!! As I accepted my degree in May, my only regret was that my dad was not there, but the fact that my mom, brother, niece, nephew and aunt were made it feel like he was. My best friend too was beside me during that journey and that friendship was tested time and time again. When you work full-time and then go to school from 6 - 10 pm, you tend you develop a short fuse. Fortunately, she was more than willing to throw a bucket of water on my fuse and douse my temper when I needed it.

4)Work Work Work. What can I say? Not many people can say they love what they do. I spend every day telling students that they shouldn't choose a career that will give them the most money or just because it sounds cool. Do what you know you will love. I adore kids; I think teenagers and young adults are amazing. When I say that people tend to look shocked, but spend some time with them, listen to them, guide them and you will develop a bond of respect and trust. Seeing a young person develop confidence, self-respect, knowledge and drive is pretty amazing.

5)Who I am. I am me, with many flaws, with many good qualities, with passionate beliefs and determination to keep it all positive. I tend to tick people off when I get a little too passionate... :oops:, but I sometimes can't help it. I spent many many years being a doormat. I never stuck up for myself. Now, I do...and I get into trouble sometimes. I'll work on that in 2008. :wink:

This year taught me many things. Who I am, who I was, what I still want to accomplish, who I love, what I love and what I am thankful for.

I wish for everyone peace, happiness and health.

Now lets get the Christmas Party started!!!

Love to ALL!!

Waterbug