I've Got Plenty To Be Thankful For

From Franklin D. Roosevelt Library Public Domain Photographs, 1882 - 1962

Dear Reader,
​Whenever I think of Thanksgiving, I get Bing Crosby's "I've Got Plenty To Be Thankful For" from Holiday Inn stuck in my head. This year especially the song holds a great deal of meaning. If you followed me on social media earlier this year, you'll know I went through two surgeries back to back and lost about three months due to recovery. It has been a very humbling experience. The lyrics Bing sings in the movie talk about how he doesn't have much, but that the simple things he does have are enough to get by. And, it's a great reminder in these times that at the end of the day, I have plenty I can be thankful for. 

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Freedom From Want by Norman Rockwell: National Archives and Records Administration Public Domain Photograph

This month, I thought I would reflect on the top 10 things I am most thankful for. I know I have plenty to be grateful for, so I'll keep it simple:

1. My health and the fact that I am slowly getting back to normal.
2. My family, especially my husband and son who were amazing caregivers through my entire health ordeal. They continually show me love day in and day out.
3. My basic necessities (i.e., food, shelter, and clothing) are met or exceeded, and I have the ability to give to those in need.
   
4. My writing tribe, especially my chaptermates in WisRWA and the ladies of WIP Crack Wednesdays. They keep me on track and encourage me every step of the way. I would also be remiss if I didn't mention the many people (both writers and industry professionals) I have met as a member of RWA.
5. The vintage community. The people I have met through this community have been amazing, welcoming, and above all helpful. I have learned so much about vintage style, and particularly hair setting from these ladies and gentleman. Plus, they offer some pretty epic vintage goals.
6. My friends. They get my crazy and don't run away screaming. From my fellow historical reenacting friends, to those I work with at Stars and Stripes Honor Flight, and to those who have known me longer than I care to admit. Friendship is a gift I do not take lightly, and I am blessed by the number of friends I have.
7. The gift a smile or kind gesture can bring to others. On some of my worst days if I find a moment to do something kind for another, expecting nothing in return, I find that I am gifted double. I have made it a personal goal to spread light and love wherever I can. To paraphrase Galadriel from Lord of the Rings, "To be a light in dark places when all other lights go out."
8. Speaking of Lord of the Rings, to my sisters of the heart in the Worldwide Eowyn Challenge, and my friends in #Run3rd. Knowing them has changed my life for the better.
9. The ability to travel and experience the world. My life is richer for the travel I have been afforded. I have learned about new places and ideas, and it has truly opened my eyes. I feel I am a more accepting and loving person from the experiences I have had. It truly is a small world.
10. Life in general. Yes, that is quite broad, but I am. I have been given so much, especially this year. I will not apologize for the kitschyness of it. I am so grateful that I have a life where I can learn new things, meet new people, and experience what the world has to offer as much as possible.

So, there you have it. My short list of 'thankfuls.' I will continue my gratitudes for the rest of the year and when 2018 rolls around, I intend to add practicing daily gratitudes as a reminder of all I have.

Time for me to get back to NaNoWriMo!  What are you thankful for this year?  

Till next time.
I'll be seeing you!
~Molly

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