Happy mashed potato day!

Of course, I have to say what I’m thankful for – I guess it helps to remember these things at the end of travelling, and the stress that all of that entails.

**I am most thankful for my family. Isn’t it wild how you are born into a group of people and later in life realize that not only do you love them, but you also like them? That in itself is a blessing. I, personally, also include my friends in my family. Many of them have been a part of my life for many years, and so they in fact, know a lot of the members of my biological and extended family, and I know members of theirs. But, these are the people who I count on, get support from, make me laugh and who help me remember what is important. CC – we’ve been through a lot. I know we will go through more. But I also know that it’s alright, because you’ll be right behind me.

**I am thankful for the opportunity I currently have to expand my horizons at the job that I currently have, in an amazing place, working with some amazing people. While I’m not sure that Berkeley, or the Bay Area, will ever be my home, it’s a heck of a place to rest my head for a few years. It’s an amazing place. I’m also thankful that this job provides me a lifestyle that allows me to do the long travelling to see my family.

**I am also, of course, thankful for Dan. (Cue: awwww) He supports and challenges me in ways that I never knew I needed. AND he moved with me to California. AND he doesnt mind my crazy work hours or that consistently, people have no idea what I do – especially since he does and he takes the time to explain. Anyway, he’s pretty great. I hope you all like him, because he’s gonna be around for awhile.

**I’m thankful for a few superficial things too – good cheese, good wine, fast internet service, and Grey’s Anatomy. Southwest Airlines, Buzz cupcakes, and Dave Matthews Band too.

So…what are you thankful for? Also…Happy Mashed Potato Day!