Janet and the Pink Crayon: Thankful

Growing up, Thanksgiving was never about sharing what we're thankful for. It has always been about food, football, more food, and then more football. It was enjoyed with the extended family but if you got in the way of food or football, you may as well have not been family. Unconditional love did not cover getting in the way of food and football. People fought over who got the dining room table seats that had the best view of the living room's TV. I always lost...

I don't fault my family. Daily, we ate home-cooked dinner together at the kitchen table (with no TV allowed) but conversation was never lively. We just didn't (and still don't) discuss the little things of life, the details of our days. Big events were discussed and as I got older, my dad and I can discuss current events and politics. It's just the way we are and I can appreciate our peacefully silent yet still enjoyable meals.

This Thanksgiving, I would like to reflect on some of the things I am truly thankful for. It's really good to take a step back and think positively rather than fret over all the little things.

I am thankful for my family who has always supported me no matter what, always forgives me after angry outbursts, has taught me the morals and values that shaped who I am today. They may frustrate me but they love me and have done nothing but push me to be a better person.

At Chichen Itza - Family Cruise 2010

I'm also thankful that my grandfather is temporarily living with my parents and has been here to celebrate my birthday and now Thanksgiving. He's 97 and each day with him is a blessing.

At my cousin's birthday party - we love food!

I'm thankful for my wonderful boyfriend, Josh. I'm so lucky to have found him. He brightens my day and lifts my spirits. He reminds me to be a little less serious and enjoy life. He introduced me to the fun of costumes (as evidenced by the picture) and does want to talk about the details of my day. His family welcomed me into their family with WIDE open arms.

At Texas Renaissance Festival - 1001 Dreams Themed Weekend

I'm thankful for my dog, Zoey. She's a lover. I wish I could spend 20 hours of the day lounging around on the bed/sleeping and then the other 4 hours of the day getting belly rubs, hugs and kisses, and treats. She lives a good life - everyone spoils her and in return she rewards us with her unconditional love.

At my parents' backyard - lab/spaniel mix (aka mutt)

And lastly, I'm thankful for my friends. They pick me up when I'm down, they share the good (and bad) times with me, they make me smile and laugh, they're an extension of me that without I am not whole.