Giving Thanks

I have plenty to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

Of course there is my beautiful wife--who has had to put up with more than her fair share of crap to stay married to me. I appreciate the sacrifices that she has made.

I still have both of my parents and one of my grandparents--along with lots of other family members who are a part of my life.

I have a number of friends that make my life fun.

I'm in great health and continue to avoid serious injury playing all of my sports.

I have a job that I enjoy and that gives me a sense of satisfaction. A real bonus in these economic times.

I am not in over my head in debt--owing only on my house. We also have savings in place for emergencies and to pay cash for our adoption (or a new car in case that comes first).

I live in a safe city with plenty of opportunities for recreation, shopping, dining and entertainment.

I can still drive my beloved Jeep Wrangler--even though it's not fuel-efficient, it's not zero-emissions and it definitely is not a "clunker".

I live in a country where dissent of the government is not only tolerated--but is openly encouraged and celebrated. And don't forget the wonderful Constitution that guarantees me the right to express myself and protects me from govenment infringement on my personal freedoms (for now anyway).

I can still eat and drink whatever I want (for now anyway).

I enjoy cleaner air, water and land than my parents or their parents ever did.

I can finally enjoy The Beatles in their full sonic glory, courtesy of the re-mastered CD's.

I have soldiers, police officers and spies working to protect all of the freedoms and security that I hold so dear. A big thanks to all of those people--despite the waffling of those elected to preserve those liberties.

And of course a big "Thank You" to all our listeners. I hope you all take time to consider all the things for which you are thankful.