Thanksgiving Week end.

Thanksgiving was yesterday. I don't like holidays, family time for me is no fun and as holidays go this one wasn't too bad - I spent most of it in the basement- hiding from my family. This way Karl could not start trouble. So I go away with as little stress as I could.
Today I spent watching movies with Trish and her family. Fun, really fun. And tomorrow, Trish, her family and I are having our own Thanksgiving with an old friend of hers, whom I have never met. It should be interesting.
What am I thankful for this year? Well, work as odd as it sounds and as hard as it is, I am thankful I *do* have a job. And I love some of the folks I work with. Karen who always tries to be supportive - I am so not used to that. Katie - who talks to me when she talks to so few others, Linda, my cohort for most of the day. Susie Q, who, like me, is her own worst enemy and harshest critic, Gwenn, who can be counted on for the truth, and info, Alison, who drives me and everyone else batty but who always has an open heart and an open hand for all who would take it- too few do. Joel, who always has a ready laugh and quick joke and so many others.
I am also thankful for Donnie Carrol, who doesn't seen to realize how much it means to talk to him, but who makes me think so often about first impressions, snap judgements, second chances and heros. Who turned out to be one of the nicest people I've ever met, even if he doesn't know how to deal with folks who are as shy as I am, The Barras for their music and their friendship and the healing that knowing them has brought.
Bonnie for listening, and understanding and caring- often when I feel no one else does.
Anne - for almost 10 years of friendship and trust
Sharn - for being enough of a friend to always tell me the truth, even when the truth is "you're being an ass'
Lisa for the chance to be a friend to someone who takes the time to understand what I am trying to say, even when or especially when I don't say it in any comprehensive manner. She still tries to get it.
Binny, because she's such fun and she shares her kids adventures with me...I hope we can connect more often.
Kristen and Lou, two of the crew that I know the least and wish I knew better,,,but I can't ever seem to find words to get past my shyness with
And Kes, who has been a friend for years, even when I didn't think so.
And Col, who always has a hand out of me, when I am feeling strong enough and brave enough get my my shyness, get my nose out of a book, and try and talk.
Amanda, because she takes the time to include me - always.
Mac, because she's a treasure who seems to really "get" me.
There are so many more that I am grateful for...I couldn't possibly name you all.
But thanks to all of you who touch my life with your friendship, who brighten it with your talents, and who give me your love.
I hope your lives are as blessed and you make mine.