I didn’t grow up in the kind of family where we said grace before meals, and Thanksgiving in our house was not the kind of occasion where we paused to reflect on what we were giving thanks for – unless it was my mom’s awesome stuffing or the desired team winning the football game that inevitably (unfortunately) played in the background. In fact, the one time I did hesitantly ask around the table if anyone wanted to share what they were grateful for that year, I was met with smirks, polite smiles, and a request to pass the gravy.

Second, I’m grateful for my parents, who’ve had a very difficult year. With humor and pragmatism, they soldier on, and with love and generosity, they continue to take care of me, even when it should be the other way around. Folks, hang in there. There are still good times ahead.

Third, I’m grateful for my friends and amazing coworkers (Paddy, you’re included here!). This has been a year for leaning on strong shoulders, and I’ve been touched to see how willing my friends are to lend them. And, it doesn’t hurt that I have an excellent group of coworkers. Which brings me to my next item.

Next, I’m grateful for my job. I’ve seldom (OK, never) had the pleasure of working with such smart, sensible, and cooperative people. In scary economic times, too many of us are forced to stay with crappy jobs out of necessity. I’m fortunate to want to stay where I am.

Last, I’m grateful to have had this chance to write and share my thoughts with readers here on this blog, and elsewhere on the Web. It’s been eye-opening and exciting to join the blogosphere.