And now … in no particular order … are the things I’m thankful for this year: 

I’m thankful Barrack Obama was elected President.  (My parents cannot believe they raised a Democrat.  I told them they did not raise a Democrat!  However, they did raise a bright son who learned how to think for himself.) 

I’m thankful to have a job I love.  (40 hours a week doing anything else and I would have offed myself YEARS ago.) 

I’m thankful my parents are in good health.  (I’m not sure, but I think Dad turned 100 this year.  Mom can’t be far behind.  They act like an old married couple.  Oh wait …) 

I’m thankful I can get by 50% of the time on looks, charm and charisma.  (Duh.  The other 50% is sheer brilliance.) 

I’m thankful I have good hair.  (As Samantha said on Sex In The City, “my hair is my thing.”) 

I’m thankful to be an Aries.  (We’re fiercely loyal and fiercely vain.  It’s a wonderful combination.  I share my BDay with Aretha Franklin, Elton John and Sarah Jessica Parker.  Go figure.) 

I’m thankful that I have such a following as a fitness instructor.  (I Heart my students.  I can be in the world’s worst mood and after I teach a class, they instantly put a smile on my face.  I feel like the “new Jan Brady”.) 

I’m thankful for “The Office”.  (It’s the only show I ever watch anymore.  And, believe me, I used to watch television five hours a night.  I got a life and got rid of cable.) 

I’m especially thankful for my random, whacko assortment of dear friends who keep me grounded and sane.  (Deirdre.  Eric.  Mithra.  Cliff.  Kiki.  Mark.  Julie.  Tamie.  And, of course, any/all of my favorite writers.) 

I’m thankful I’ve discovered chardonnay and discarded coffee.  (I’m much calmer.  And drunker.) 

I’m thankful this website has gotten nearly 5,000 hits.  (Who knew when my friend Jamon was designing it, it would be such a hit!?) 

Most of all, I’m thankful life is good and I have several constant creative outlets.  (I can write, produce, direct, cajole, finagle, decorate, cook and teach to my heart’s content.) 

Here’s wishing each of you a delightful Thanksgiving to enjoy with family and friends!