Today’s the day we give thanks for all we have. It’s a busy time of cleaning, shopping and cooking. But, there’s more to Thanksgiving than basting the turkey and setting the table.

For years, I was caught up in the celebration. Now, I’m more reflective. Perhaps that’s the wisdom that comes with age. (Did I really admit that?) Now I’m not so concerned with cooking a big dinner. Maybe it’s because I did that for years. Now, I’d rather spend the time with my family and friends and not fuss so much with dinner.

I’m developing an attitude of gratitude. It’s taken a long time. It reminds me of an old saying, “Too soon old. Too late smart.” I used to see it on the back of the Schwan delivery trucks.

Here are the top few items on my gratitude list . . .

My family is spread out across the country. We keep in touch, especially by phone and email. I’m looking forward to our family reunion at Christmas.

My friends have stood by me in good times and bad. Some are old childhood friends and others are new. Some are local and others are Internet friends that I’ve never met in person.

My health. I didn’t realize just how much I could have been doing to take care of myself until the last several years. Not that I was doing a lot to jeopardize my health. There’s just so much I could have been doing to be proactive. So, now I’m eating better and faithfully taking my vitamins.

My business
I’ve been self-employed for 13 years. I quit my last job in 1995 and never looked back. For the last 4 years, I’ve been a Shaklee distributor. It’s allowed me to be a full time caregiver for my mom, who’s not longer independent.

Today is just the start of the Holiday season. I’m really looking forward to spending time with family and friends. And when the Holidays are over and life calms down again, we’ll all have the memories to carry us into the future.

When I count my blessings today you will be among them. Thank you for your friendship and love. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.