Thankful Day 1

So you've probably noticed some stress in my words. Anger perhaps. Agony. A hint of depression. Grotesque fatigue. It's true. I run in circles - often downward spiraling.

At the end of this academic year is a grand mystery. Black space. It looms on my mind. I plan on hitting that void with a timidly fierce voracity - there is such a thing as I am the epitome of it. Trust me.

But I'm not nearing the edge of a precipice. Don't worry. I'm all right. Life is too precious. And if I live, I should live with vivid exuberance. I try.

All that being said, I strive to daily count my blessings. There are so many. Even on the darkest days I can find them. It helps to count them.

So I thought I'd start sharing them with you. It's November. Thanksgiving. What better time than now? What better medium than this? May you enjoy this. May you be blessed by this. Pray for me.

un. Long telephone conversations with friends. Damien made me laugh and yearn for France. Nicole's voice was soothing as ever. Dennis and I traveled a million miles with our words. Fiona's still, small presence inspired peace. Nicolas never ceases to amaze and delight. Charise sounded like a clear stream of water on a warm spring day.

deux. Reese's Pieces.

trois. The feel of egyptian coton.

quatre. New dance shoes with 2.5 inch heels.

cinq. Milk in glass bottles.

six. Higher Education. ... and on a more basic level, the ability to read and write.

sept. Electric toothbrushes.

huit. Orchids.

neuf. The scent of freshly cut grass.

dix. Pumpkin whoopie pies.