"What if today, we were just grateful for everything?" - Charlie Brown

When I first sat down to write this entry, I felt an overwhelming sense of anxiety and couldn't put my finger on the reason.   I was trying to categorize and organize all the things sloshing around in my head.  Yes, it was Thanksgiving, and no, I was not with family.  Yes, this was my dad's favorite holiday meal and, no I hadn't cooked the full meal since he passed.  Yes, I loved all of the dishes on the menu, and no, I didn't enjoy them as much I did when he was alive.   Each good thought was counterpunched by another, and I felt myself slowly sliding down that slope that I was sure would find me mentally curled in a fetal position rocking away the darkness.  I knew I had to dig myself out and quickly or the return could take a while.

I needed a feel good moment to happen so I trolled the internet in search of a posting of the full length holiday classic A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving to lift my spirits.  I loved all of these movies as a kid, and as an adult,  I quickly recognized the subtle humor peppered throughout.  A good guttural laugh and a few hearty chuckle-worthy moments into the film, and I could see the light again.   So I called upon the muse of Marcie, and let the feelings of thankfulness flow which culminated in this listing of things for which I am grateful today and everyday (in no particular order):

• Facial tissue because this dust is working up an allergy I have never had.  Tissue is now my best friend.  I suspect it's a combination of the cat dander and the desert dust that finds me reaching for one all too often throughout the day.
• My mom and her road dawg, Aunt Lauretta, my sister and my brother who have really stepped in to try to fill the void that was created in Camryn's life when I left.  They made sure she got settled into her new digs in college and ensure that she is in touch with family when she is feeling alone.  
• Cooler temperatures that allowed me take two leisurely walks today just to think of all the things going right in my life.  Camryn told me when I left that she hoped Kuwait would treat me well, and so far so good.  I am loving it here even with all of the challenges of residency, traffic, and the usual heat.  
• The Sultan Center cause it's a short walk from work and sells products from home like Tostitos chips, salsa and cheese dip.  
• Chips and dip cause I needed a snack before I headed to dinner tonight.  Besides that, this is my go-to meal when I am too tired to cook. 
• My cousin Jackie and her family who have taken Camryn in for the holidays and who I know are feeding her well.  I am especially grateful for C who scooped her up for the ride to Florida.
• Having my passport back although it came too late for me to make travel plans for this break.  I have already booked flights and hotels for my Christmas break travels and am reviewing my bucket list for spring break and summer.  
• An old friend who showed up unexpectedly in my life all the way over here in Kuwait and asked some questions that I have avoided hearing and avoided answering even more.  I can't wait to see what comes of this look in the proverbial mirror.  I suspect it's going to be GREAT!!   
• The kindness of others who have extended themselves to make a very happy Thanksgiving for everyone away from friends and family.  I am blessed to have two dinners on my schedule this holiday break, and even more blessed because I don't have to cook it or clean up afterwards.  #winning 
• Kuwait cucumbers, yes cucumbers.  OMG these are the best I have ever tasted and they are sized just right.  For me, they are like potato chips.  I can't eat just one!!  
• Pomegranate seeds sold by the cupful.  In spite of the youtube videos and the tutorial sent to my by the Elliott girls, Sarah and Erin (with Grant doing his own thing in the background), I have not found a way to cut one without making a mess. Think I'll stick with the cup.
• Technology that allows me to stay in daily touch with my those back home 24/7!
• The good fortune to have this opportunity to do the job I love and gain immensely through personal and professional contacts I am making here.  My eyes are wide open, and I am graciously receiving it all.  

Happy Thanksgiving!!