giving thanks

It ain't just about turkey and football. It's not just driving over the river and through the woods to Grandma's senior apartment. And it sure isn't about studying the reams of glossy color ads in the special Thanksgiving edition of the newspaper in preparation for commando shopping on Friday.

Nope. It's about Thanks Giving. Giving Thanks. And it would be so much better if that were the focus.

I'm not much for Hallmark sentimentality. I'm more for sincerity, what comes from the heart. So in that spirit, I offer a list of the things I am giving thanks for this holiday:

A good life. The chance to not be a prisoner to someone else's ideologies, whether that someone else be the government, a major corporation, or someone closer.

The land here, and all of the gifts of nature it so daily provides. In one day a few days ago The Hermit saw a male cardinal and a rooster pheasant. Not to mention, great gray owls.

A great gardening season, that despite early frosts, surpassed my expectations. And the chance to learn from that and try again next year.

A roof over my head, and a woodpile to put into the stove. We're not into the new place yet, but at least we have a place to call home.

A job that provides what we need, and isn't too hard on the brain or spirit.

My kids, who surpass any expectations I may have had. I am not worthy.

The friends I have met this past year, both in "real life" and online. I feel so much a part of a bigger community, one that shares my vision of what the world could be like.

The music, which I have found a new love for and rediscovered recently.

And each and every chickadee that brightens my feeders these November days.

I give thanks for one and all. Happy Thanksgiving! :)