Happy Thanksgiving everyone. I know everyone is ready to go out and stuff themselves with turkey and desserts, but for me, it’s still really early in the morning and I’m not quite ready for turkey yet.

We all live our lives day to day and don’t often step back and look at where we are and the people around us. Thanksgiving usually gets people to stop, even just for a moment, and think about the great things in their lives. I try as often as possible to appreciate what I have, but I don’t necessarily write it down or say it as much as I should.

I’ve been given so many great things in my life. I’m thankful for the freedom I have to do what I please, the wonderful place that I live in, to be surrounded by all of my wonderful family, and to be able to live day after day in happiness.

Most of all I’m thankful for family, both immediate family and my wonderful extended family.

To my wife of 10 years, it’s like we’ve never been apart and I’m thankful for every morning I wake up with you, every day we spend together, and every night we curl up together again. You make my life worth living and you give me so much.
To my son, you never cease to surprise me. You are way too smart for your own good and I love how passionate you are about the things you love, never forget that.

To my daughter, boy are you going to be a fun one at 13. You have your mother’s spirit, and that is one of the reasons I love her so much too, so I’m glad she passed that on to you, even if some days I could just ring your little neck. You will make some man very happy some day, just as your mother did for me.

And to all of the rest of the family and friends, each of you add to my life in your own way, and for that I’m thankful.

So, here’s to a happy day filled with joy, laughter, friendship and love. Oh, and turkey. (Mike, is it done yet?)

Make sure you stop and think about what you’re thankful for today. You’ll feel better doing it.