As everyone knows, today is Thanksgiving. I’m out of town spending time with family on this cold, blustery day. In the spirit of the holiday, I would like to run down a few of the things I am thankful for.

I am thankful for my family. My beautiful wife married me just about 6 years ago and for that, I am thankful. With our marriage, I worked to become Dad to two beautiful, wonderful children. I am thankful for my Mother and Father who gave me life and tried to do their best in raising me. It was very hard work dealing with me sometimes, but they did the best they could. I am thankful for the rest of my family as well, regardless of our differences.

I am thankful that I am still in relatively good health. In my years on this earth, I have never had a broken bone, nor been hospitalized overnight for any illness or injury. I keep testing fate with some of my lifestyle choices, but as I said, I am in pretty good health.

I am thankful that I have a good job that provides enough to meet our basic needs as well as a few of our wants. I’ve been working at the same place for 6 years and for that I am thankful.

I am thankful that with some hard work and long hours across two jobs, my wife and I were able to purchase our first house this past spring. It’s not a mansion by any means, but it’s in a great neighborhood with good neighbors. We finally have a place we can call home and for that I am thankful.

I am thankful that I have much love in my life for without that, a soul is empty. I firmly believe that loving and being loved contributes immensely toward good health and happiness.

I am thankful that I live in a country where I am free to put voice to my thoughts and opinions without fear of retribution from the government (although with the Patriot Act and some of its provisions, that privilege dwindles). I know that many people across the country do not have that luxury and for that I am thankful.

I am also thankful for all of you that faithfully read this site. I have been fortunate to have not been the focus of coordinated “troll” attacks on me or my site. So on this day, I thank you, even those of you who disagree with me.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. According to your religion, be sure to give thanks to your God(s) who provides for us all.

So tell me, what are you thankful for?