Thankful...

I have learned a lot of lessons over the years... I admit that I usually learn them the hard way, but they are well-learned...  This year I am feeling especially grateful... for being able to appreciate that the experiences that have carried me this far and made me who I am are the same experiences that make me appreciate the best things in my life.  So, this year... I am thankful for:

*Second, and even third chances... to experience love, from a man who understands me... who is a real partner... and believes in us.

*My daughter... and my new son and daughter... The three of them teach me every day about being patient, and strong, and committed... to making them the best they can be, which makes me the best I can be.  They help me keep perspective... if they can be flexible when it comes to the everyday things, why shouldn't I do the same?

*Girlfriends and sisters... The strong women in my life that believe in me and support me... You help me to believe in myself when I am doubtful, you make me laugh, and you show me every day how to appreciate what is wonderful in my life.

*For a job that supports my family and keeps me challenged, every single day...

*Balance... for knowing that to be the best me, I have to have a balance between what I do at work and my life outside the bank.  I need this... for me, for my family... for sanity and clarity and the chance to be more than a spreadsheet.

*Shoes, and music, and coffee, and kissing... the simple things.  If there is a lesson that I have learned, it is that simple things will make you the happiest.  So I appreciate them... because they make me feel real and fill my soul.