Grateful.

Most of us living in the United States are celebrating Thanksgiving today. And while some might that Thanksgiving is one of those "commercial" holidays, I love what it means for me.

As a kid, I would love to help my mom set the table for Thanksgiving. For a few years, we actually spent the holiday "up north" (further north in Michigan) at my grandparents' cottage. Either way, I liked the idea of readying a big meal for everyone in the immediate family.

In college, Thanksgiving meant coming home from school for a large weekend before the last two weeks of the semester. I always LOVED that weekend as a way to unwind and relax.

But beyond all that, this time of year reminds me of family. I lost my paternal grandmother a few years ago the Monday before Thanksgiving. And instead of ignoring the holiday, my parents hosted the entire extended family at our house that day for food and fellowship. And while we all knew we would have to bury my grandmother the next day, we spent that day, that Thanksgiving, being thankful for the strength of our family. I always remember that when things get rough.

I know I have much to be thankful for this year. While I could dwell on the negative, harp on the things that didn't happen, and whine, I won't. Why not? Because in the midst of the small amount of negativity I experienced this year, there were also a lot of positives.

I say it often, but it doesn't hurt to say it again; this blog has saved me in many ways. It sounds silly, right? But really, having an outlet, a community, and an amazing support system has helped me get through some of those bitter disappointments the last two years. And I probably don't say it enough, but thank you. For everyone who has ever stopped in even for a moment, thank you.

And a big thank you to all of you who comment, tweet, read, and offer virtual hugs. I think I am in a far better mental place for having jumped into this community. It is easy to take this for granted the other 364 days of the year, but today, well, I can acknowledge the huge things you have all done for me.

I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving, and for those of you who don't celebrate, or live outside the U.S., I hope you have a beautiful day.