Thanksgiving

Okay, I know it is technically AFTER Thanksgiving, but I had a very busy week of interviews, bad Internet connections and stuffing my face. So, I thought I would push back my Official Thanksgiving Blog until Cyber Monday, when everyone is trawling the interwebs anyhow, in search of a good deal.

Today, I've decided to make a list of things I'm thankful for in the spirit of the holiday. Brace yourselves:

1. My family. Every time I go to a family function, I am reminded why I love my family so much. They are wonderful, warm, loving, funny people who make a mean turkey (and gravy, stuffing, potatoes, rolls, noodles, sweet potato casserole, devilled eggs, roasted chestnuts, no-bake cookies and many more dishes too numerous to mention.) Every year we all bring less food and more seems to show up. It has become a running joke that dinner is scheduled for one p.m. and we've NEVER eaten at one p.m. AND there is always too much food for the 30 of us to possibly consume.

2. My health. If the last month has taught me anything, it is that being healthy is really important and that if you are, you can bounce back from anything. So beyond a few (20) extra pounds and an irritating knee, I'm doing okay and I'm happy about that.

3. My doggies. I almost rescinded this when we picked them up from the kennel this morning, only to find that they had to be separated because of bad behavior. But frankly, I wouldn't expect any different. My brother and I had to be separated at the kennel when we were their age, so I guess the furry apples don't fall too far from the tree. And anyone who gets so excited when they see you that they pee is worth being thankful for.

4. My mom's pantry. She has the most deluxe snack food in the world and I love it. Gourmet candy, gelato, exotic cheese dips, etc. Of course, I gained four pounds while I was at her house, so it is more of a love/hate relationship with the pantry.

5. Board games. Jack and Mom bought a new board game that involved lots of shouting, gesticulating and singing. We played on Saturday until way past curfew (they go to bed at 8:30 or so) and we had the best time. Even if they beat the pants off us.

6. Alcohol. It makes everything better, doesn't it?

7. The hubs. He is a trooper. He doesn't blink when I suggest spending a week with my mom, five hours at dinner, screaming-singing board games, six a.m. wakeups so we can get on the road at a reasonable time, gelato for dinner, etc. He gets along with everyone, makes great conversation and even packs the suitcases when it is time to come home. He's a dream.

All in all, it was a wonderful week. I ate a ton of sushi, shot some guns, ate turkey, played board games and had a great time.

Hope your Thanksgiving was at least half as good.