I've never really needed a holiday to remind myself of all of things in which I am always thankful for, including (but certainly not limiting to) the following things: Alfredo (of course), my close friends, Ryan, people who have been inspirational to my life, some of my awesome co-workers (special shoutout to Dana - the only person who I know reads my blog consistently), my parents, a few family members, Starbucks, my cowboy boots, Arizona, my job, running, good memories, vacations, the sun, etc. Let's face it. The list goes on and on. Aside from the "I am thankful for" thought, I actually happen to think Thanksgiving is unique, and I probably look at this specific holiday from a different lens than most. First, I have the unique experience of working directly with Native Americans, on an Indian Reservation, for a living. Before the Black Friday/football watching/busiest travel time of the year hype ever existed, Thanksgiving was built on the values of two cultures setting aside their differences and making peace with each other. Now, I'm certainly not saying racism doesn't exist in the world, but I get the luxury of working with Native Americans in an effort to better the lives of Native American children every day. It's quite rewarding and makes the history of Thanksgiving personally significant. I guess I can't really help but to think about why America established Thanksgiving to begin with every time the holiday comes around. Anyway, putting the historical appreciation aside, this Thanksgiving was great for two specific reasons. First, I took a trip to Iowa for the very first time. Despite the freezing cold weather, it was a fantastic time. Secondly, Alfredo was in great hands back in Arizona under the care of Auntie Stacie and Auntie Aimee. There was no worrying about him while I was off losing money at the casino, laughing until my abs hurt while playing Apples to Apples, standing in shopping lines on Thanksgiving evening, stuffing my face with puppy chow (best snack ever) and other fantastic food, or while winning huge or losing huge in family games of rummy. While all of this was going on, Alfredo...
was captured by Auntie Stacie for play time.
Here he is at Auntie Stacie's house playing with his girlfriend, Dion, and Dion's other roommate, Max. Auntie Stacie also tried getting all of them to play at the dog park, but Alfredo refused to get into the vehicle. This isn't the first time he's done this as he's also refused to ride with his grandma. Stranger Danger, I guess!
When he wasn't playing with his friends, Auntie Aimee made sure his belly was nice and full.
She also took him for lots of outside fun time.
So, I guess if I had to create a "I am thankful" list this year, it'll be for Alfredo's aunties and my fun trip to Iowa.
Only 24 more days until Christmas!
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