I’m thankful for my family’s health, even if my back tightens up whenever I sit for a period of time.

I’m thankful for the impact my father-in-law left in this world, even if he left us all way too soon.

I’m thankful for a large garden, even if 1/3 of it looks like shit.

I’m thankful I found a passion for writing, even if I struggle to find the time to enjoy it.

I’m thankful for my son’s intelligence and awareness of all that goes on in the world, even if he proves me wrong on a daily basis and seems to revel in it.

I’m thankful for my daughter’s whimsical and optimistic view on life, even if I can’t fathom how she still believes in the tooth fairy.

I’m thankful for my wife’s compassion, authenticity and natural beauty, even if she thinks I’m full of shit when I say it.

I’m thankful that my parents are still here and I can continue to interview them and pick their brains, even if I don’t tell them that enough.

I’m thankful for this blog and all that is had provided to me, even if I don’t write here as much as I want to.

I’m thankful for ornamental grasses, even if I still have a lot to learn before I can write my book on it.

I’m thankful for the 30,000 words I’ve written for my new book, even if it is a bit self-indulgent and deeply personal.

I’m thankful for you readers, even those who don’t announce themselves.