A whaaaaa?

Turkey Day is upon us and this is the time of year when people start to reflect on what they are thankful for in their lives.  Unfortunately I am not able to spend this holiday with my family, the first time in four years but I'll be at work keeping pretty busy and then I'm heading to dinner with some friends from school.  So what am I thankful for???  Being the happiest I've been in a long time I'm truly finding an appreciation for everything that I have in my life, and the opportunities I'm being offered.

So here's a pretty good list (in no particular order):

1) JAWS - I'm thankful that I still find this to be one of my favorite movies of all time.  I just watched it again today and somehow, even after not seeing this movie in a very long time, I still know every line, every note to the theme music, and pretty much everything that there is to know about the making of it.  I still laugh at the same scenes, get the same feeling in my guy in the opening scene, and still have so many memories surrounding this film...great job Spielberg.

2)Family - of course I'm thankful for all of the support my family has given me during this new transition.  I got a text from my sis today saying Turkey Day week just isn't the same without me.  It's definitely not the same without my fam either.  Love you guys!  Miss you and I'll be back for Christmas!

3)My current home - Monterey Bay is one of the most majestic places I've ever been and I'm truly grateful to have this opportunity.  I hope I never take for granted the environment I live in and will always appreciate what beauty is surrounding me.

4)Aquarist II - I have come along way in my 'career' as a marine biologist.  I've been on such a rollercoaster emotionally and mentally trying to find a place that truly makes me happy.  I never wanted to make a career out of cleaning fish tanks and dealing with sick fish, leading me to think negatively and bringing my outlook on life on a downward spiral and at times it was like I was taking those people around me that I loved the most with me.  I'm truly thankful that God has given me the opportunity to turn my perspective on life around and handed me a chance to start over again at such an amazing facility.  It just makes you think about what things could have been like if I had always been this happy????

5)Health - Everyone around me at work is getting sick and luckily I've fought it off (so far; knock on wood).  I'm thankful to have my health and to be able to work towards a healthy lifestyle.  I am thankful to have two good legs that take me to work, to new places and on new adventures; a healthy heart, good lungs, and a strong mind. 

6)Roof over my head - I cannot be more thankful to have a place to live.  I've got a very small apt., quaint and perfect for me and finally living on my own is helping me grow into an almost-30 year old adult! (less than 5 months)

7)Laughter - It helps me get through each day.  Whether it is others making me laugh or me making myself laugh, I'm thankful for the feeling of laughter and I truly believe it will help any person live a much longer life.

8)Friends - New and old it is great to have friends.  I love meeting new people, catching up with old friends, and keeping in touch with best friends.  

9)Sports - I'll always have my sports teams...it doesn't matter if they are giving me grey hair or raising another banner, I'll always be a proud Boston sports fan.  So long V-Mart!

10)Forgiveness - I'm thankful for those that have forgiven me throughout the past and for finding personal forgiveness for myself, helping me move on with my life in a positive direction.

Happy Turkey Day everyone, eat well!!!  Go Pats!!!