Now that Thanksgiving has passed and we are wecloming December, I think it's time to take stock of a few things. Thanksgiving is, obviously, an opportunity to give thanks. And with the Christmas season approaching, I think it's very important to take a moment to be grateful. And, so, to kick things off, here is a list of things I am grateful for.

1. I am grateful for the health and safety of my family. This is particularly true for my two sisters, who recently moved to different sides of the country and are making new lives for themselves. And this is the MOST true for my brother Josh (who is actually my brother-in-law, but we're very close) who is deploying to Iraq on Christmas Day. I am grateful that he is healthy today and I pray for his continued safety. I hope that those of you who read this blog will join me in my prayers.

2. I am grateful for my job, which allows me to do what I am best at and continues to challenge me and offer me new and exciting opportunities. In these troubled economic times, I am lucky to have a job at all. But to have such an inspirational job makes me feel doubly blessed.

3. I am grateful for the continued airing of the Miss America pageant on television. Watching the pageant is a cherished part of my childhood. And now, it has become a surprising and delightful part of my adulthood.

4.I am grateful for my new apartment, which makes me feel like a million bucks when I walk in the door. I am lucky to have such a beautiful place to call my sanctuary from the storm. And I have a dishwasher!

5. I am grateful for all the people in my life - friends, family, co-workers, hairdressers, etc - that make me smile on a daily basis. It is easy to become complacent in life and forget all the treasures we have around us.

Now, faithful readers, I suggest you take a few quiet moments and think of all the blessings in your life. Be sure to list a few of the things you are thankful for in the comments!