Today is Thanksgiving in the United States, a national holiday set aside for Americans to give thanks for their blessings. I have so many, many things to be thankful for.

I am thankful for my husband and soulmate, Henry, for our 2 grown children and 4 awesome grandchildren, and all of my family and friends.

I am thankful when I see a smile on a grandchild’s face and hear the sound of  their laughter. I’m thankful to be able to attend their sporting events and school programs. I’m thankful for their gifts of art work which we have all around our home and RV.

I am thankful that I have been given the gift of another day above ground. I am thankful that I am healthy enough to go for a walk, to go to water aerobics, to work in my garden, and to do all of the ordinary every day things I enjoy.

I am thankful I have been able to travel around our beautiful country to see many of the National Parks and other special places. I’m thankful I’ve observed bears, elk, moose, bison, birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. I’m thankful for the beauty and wildlife in my own backyard.

I am thankful for all of the brave men and women of the United State military who keep our country safe and protect our freedoms. I’m grateful for the members of our police and fire departments who keep us safe in our own home towns.

I am thankful for the little things that make me smile – a butterfly on a flower, a hummingbird on the feeder, deer grazing in a field, a beautiful sunrise, or a surprise phone call from a grandchild.

I am thankful for all the many Thanksgivings I have enjoyed with loved ones.

Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving!