Best holiday of the year: the official day of recognizing we owe thanks to God for our family, friends, communities–and so much more.

I’m thankful to God for many things, and my family and friends are up on top of the list.

There are others, too, hidden folks who work behind the scenes, whose names go unknown and services unnoticed. For instance, I’m thankful for the crew of people who get the electricity on again when it goes out. Thankful for the linemen who keep the telephone wires up so I can chat from the house to anyone anywhere anytime. I’d like to say the same for my cell phone, but it doesn’t work at the house. Still, I’m thankful for it when it does work.

I’m thankful for Trent, the guy at the Kroger store who carries my groceries to the car for me. He’s a sweet kid, and my husband and I have a lot in common with him. Since I haven’t fully regained my strength after being ill, Trent’s youthful muscles come in handy.

I’m thankful for the UPS guy who finally figured out which house is mine so I can get my medicine on time. And I’m really thankful for whoever created the medicine!

I’m thankful for whoever invented instant cocoa, warm socks, and flannel shirts–and when we’re having a Texas Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for whoever invented air conditioning.

I’m thankful for the options of ham or turkey, for a dressing recipe that has been passed down through the generations, for Mom’s preference of odd veggies and MSB’s love of pecan pie (meaning there’s more coconut for me). I’m thankful for being well enough to eat what I want–and I’ll be thankful for any pound I manage to lose after the holiday season is over.

I’m thankful for you, my readers and friends. I pray you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and remember to give thanks for all your blessings. We have so many in this nation, and for that, I am truly thankful.