Well, Hello There, November!

I was going to title this entry "Obligatory Thanksgiving Post" but I did that back in 2009.  It's okay, I know you really want to check and see if I really did.  Go ahead, search for it using the handy-dandy archive on the right-hand side of your screen.  One hint: it's not in November.

Anywho, I figured I should take a few minutes and jot something so utterly profound that anyone reading this blog would immediately think about changing jobs, going back to school, or at least considering a different method for arranging their sock drawer.  To have such an impact, however, would require that more than three people read my blog.  So I'll just fall back on the ever reliable, always consistent, and seasonally appropriate outpouring of thanks.

I'm grateful to be back in the United States.  We had such an amazing experience in Thailand, and we're looking forward to our next overseas assignment (whenever that is), but I really, really love living in America.  Potable tap water, (mostly) predictable traffic, and distinct seasons are but a few of the things that I've been very happy to reacquaint myself with since returning.  I'm also happy to have more than one running route, and topographic variation that make running much more interesting.

Those pale in comparison with how thankful I am for my family.  I have an amazing wife, full of patience, love, and compassion.  And she's a great kisser to boot.  My children continually impress me with their creativity, their inspiration, and their boundless energy.  My children also continually frustrate me with their creativity, their inspiration, and their boundless energy.  They are healthy, they're (mostly) happy, and so far they're all shorter than me.  What more could a man ask for?

I'm grateful for my parents, their love and inspiration.  They've put up with me longer than anyone else, and for that they deserve a medal.  Likewise I'm grateful for my mother- and father-in-law, for their sacrifice and service, the example they give to their children and grandchildren.

Lastly, I'm grateful I get to teach early morning seminary.  No, seriously, I really am thankful for the opportunity.  I'm so impressed with the dedication and enthusiasm those high school kids bring every morning.  Sure, it can be tiring, but let's be honest--do I have anything better to do at 6 a.m.?

Okay, time to go to bed.  Six a.m. comes really early.