5 Things I am Thankful For

1. Squirt

We had Squirt for about 12 years, so he was probably around 14 when he crossed the rainbow bridge.  I'm so thankful that I had all of that time with him. He was my baby and while I hope that other dogs come into my life down the road, no one will ever take his place.  He's my heart. 

2. Theatre

I am so thankful that theatre has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.  Grandmother would take us to see the children's productions put on by the local theatre.  I remember seeing Cinderella and Tom Sawyer.  The Music Man was the first musical I ever saw on stage.  Fred Simpson, who went to our church, played the lead.  I was in Drama Club in high school and then majored in theatre in college (the first time around). And one of the reasons I am so thankful for theatre being a part of my life is that so many dear friends I have made along the way have been possible because of theatre.  While I do not actively participate on stage at the moment, I am still enjoying going to see shows and supporting the arts.  For that, I am thankful. 

3. Christmas Music

I've been a Christmas music junkie for as long as I remember.  Growing up, we didn't dare listen to it until after Thanksgiving.  Of course, that was back in the days when Christmas was not even publicly thought about until the day after Thanksgiving.  But once we could, those records played nonstop in our house. Every year, Mom and I would go to Hallmark and get their annual Christmas album on cassette. Now, as an adult, it is my happy music.  I listen to it all year round though I do not force anyone else to listen to it (but I'm always happy for someone to join me!). I have amassed a nice collection of Christmas vinyl - over 250.  I am thankful for this music because it reminds me of such happy times and makes me feel good about life. 

4. Running water

This one's pretty much a given.  When I think of people who don't have running water, I simply cannot imagine what that hardship must be like and I am so thankful that I do have it.  Of all utilities, this one would probably be the most difficult to live without!

5. Being Old Fashioned

I am thankful that I am old fashioned.  As nice as computers and other technologies are, I prefer the simpler way to do things.  I cannot help it, it's just part of my soul.  I'm an old soul and proud of it.  And people appreciate that, even those who are not old fashioned themselves. There is something to be said for keeping traditions alive and well and being an old-fashioned person gives me the opportunity to do that.