I'm off for a Thanksgiving visit to friends and relatives in the morning, so I don't know if I will get to post during the next few days. I want to leave you with one thing - a top ten list of what I am thankful for in my life.

1. Family: AJ and Alden give me so much joy and so much to think about. I love them to pieces. I am also grateful for the love and support of my parents, sister, brother and AJ's folks. I would not be who I am without these people.
2. Friends: I've had a hard time getting together with folks since taking on the job at the Press. Now, though, I do believe this winter will be filled with many, many gatherings with friends, both new and old. Love you all, and thank you for your gift of friendship!
3. My art: I believe I am finally coming into my own as an artist. Each new project gives me an opportunity to create something lovely and challenges me to think AND do.
4. My house: Even though it's not the best dressed, this old gal has style and class that any new prefab home could never touch.
5. My yard and garden: I have loved nurturing the flower beds around my home this year and hope to continue next spring. I also love the view from my back deck (today's sunset is in the pic above - I took this from my back window).
6. Lake Superior: This body of water makes me want to cry from joy every time I see her. The color of her waters changes with her moods, from sad grays to tropical greens to spring-mud reds.
7. Chequamegon National Forest: On any given Sunday we only need to drive a half hour or less to get on trail. From the scrubby pine barrens on the Bayfield Peninsula to the flowing waters of Morgan Falls just south of our home, we never have to scrounge for an excellent outdoor adventure.
8. My animals: These fuzzy and feathered creatures enliven my life. Tonight I spent several minutes petting Speck (our Speckled Sussex hen). It's amazing to see a normally spastic bird docilely accept a back rub.
9. Music: Between AJ's jazz band concert on Friday night and the Internet radio in our living room, I am grateful to be able to enjoy music in all its forms.
10. Vacation: Sometimes you just need to get away!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, whatever you do!