What it means to me
For me, over the years Thanksgiving Day meant a trip to my mom's house; the Queens, NY home I grew up in. It was a chance to be with siblings, nieces, nephews, distant cousins, aunts, uncles and long time family friends. Not to brag but my mother, now in her eighties, still is a master cook. In preparation for the fest, she would have been cooking for more than a week; freezing what was finished. The menu would include the traditional turkey but continue with fresh ham, "string" beans, collard greens, peas & rice, sweet potatos, potato salad, homemade cranberry sauce along with assorted homemade cakes, pies and there was always room for Jello. Without exaggeration, easily 75-100 family members and friends would stop by in shifts for a plate (or two) of my mom's cooking. Tables were set-up in the dining room, breakfast room, living room and of course the "kids' table" in the basement. Mom, has retired from staging this event for several years. And honestly, I don't think anyone will every duplicate that total experience ever again.
Now that I'm a lot older and I would like to think, a little wiser; Thanksgiving has taken on a more subdued day for me. It's become less about stuffing my face and more about reflecting on what is important and truly what I am thankful for. Here is my top ten list, in no particular order:
I am thankful for my family and my close friends, who really are family without sharing the same gene pool. ( I still keep in contact with friends I've known for more than 50 years.)
With no disrespect to other nationals, I am thankful to have been born in the USA with the opportunity to have traveled the world. Having had experiences in underdeveloped countries, I am thankful for fresh food to eat and clean water to drink.
I am thankful to be in reasonably good health. As an adult, I've not spent a single night in a hospital bed.
I am thankful to own a comfortable and affordable home.
I am thankful to have a steady source of income and a (maybe foolish) sense of economic security.
I am thankful for the opportunity to expand my career horizons, contacts and knowledge.
I am thankful for the solid moral/ethical foundation that my parents instilled in me as a child.
I am thankful to have the ability to give back to my global community. I encourgae you to join me in support of Hope Unlimited for Children, the DREAM Project and the Franklin Township Food Bank.
I am thankful to you who are reading my Blog.
I am thankful to be blessed and to have awakened another day.
However you spend your day, may you enjoy a very Happy Thanksgiving. | 
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