Thank You.

I don't adhere to the typical calender anymore apparently.  I just started listening to Christmas music last week, when I was writing a prescription and came to the realization that, holy shnikey, December is already half way over. Didn't we just celebrate Halloween?!  I certainly hope this is not a sign of getting older, because life is going by way to fast for my liking. I am already seeing some of my patients for 6 month follow up appointments. WHAT? Yes, 6 month follow up.  See what I mean about too fast? So, since I can't seem to get a handle on time, or timely posts, let's rewind a little again and let me give thanks before I wrap my brain around turning 30, and celebrating Christmas all in just a few days.

So, in this season that often flys by amid a tangle of shopping and to-do lists, I want to take a quick moment for reflection.

In no particular order, here are a few of the things in my life for which I am thankful.

- One of the many unexpected things to come out of a wedding celebration, is the overwhelming appreciation for all the love and support of your family and friends.  I think the stress of planning a huge (weekend long?!?) party can overshadow a lot of things until you are finally there in the moment, and can appreciate the magnitude of people flying in from all over the country simply to join in celebration of your commitment to a life long partner.  JP and I would catch each others eyes all weekend long, over the din of our favorite people gathering together in one place.  They were working in the kitchen, hanging lights in the rafters, gathering rocks and sand from the beach and creating table arrangements, entertaining the cousins, and so much more, all while forming new relationships with each other.  (Clearly I need to write a wedding post some day soon)  It really was a very humbling and incredible experience to feel so lifted up in love by such amazing people.  For them I am so grateful.

- And one of the expected things to come out of my wedding celebration? Well, a new husband of course.  I am thankful everyday for the unwavering love, support, and laughter that my handsome groom gives to me.  He is my rock, my best friend, and one of the best humans I have ever known.  How he manages to deal with allllllll my craziness, I may never know, but I am so thankful that he does.

- I am so thankful for my job.  Though it is very hard, and at times I still struggle with finding the words, or figuring out the pieces of a particular patient's puzzle, or even just trusting myself and my knowledge, I know that I learn and grow everyday.  My patients teach me so much, and I am constantly amazed at how much trust they have in me, sharing some of their most intimate life experiences with someone they barely know.  I hope I am giving them all that they need, cause I am certainly trying hard!

- CRAFTS.  Um, seriously I am thankful for crafts and crafting.  I love the thinking of, the making of, and the possibility of crafts, crafts, crafts.  I am thankful that I have the time in my life again for creating things with my hands, because that it a very life giving thing for me.

- Laughter.  I laugh constantly. Inappropriately, aptly, and loudly.  I think there is nothing I like better than laughing.  It just makes everything better.  I am blessed with hilarious friends, and a job that very easily lends itself to either laughter or tears, for which I most often choose laughter.  I am thankful for every single chortle, gufaw, giggle, pee in your pants, tears down your eyes laugh in my life.

I think that should probably suffice for now.  I hope to keep this gratitude in my minds eye every day.  And so, on wards to Christmas, eh? See you on the other side!