When I was in high school we had assembly at which the students shared what they were grateful for, which ranged from a favorite TV show to a supportive faculty member to loved ones lost. Each year I continue that tradition by reflecting on the past year and sharing my thanks as a blog post. And with that, here is my "thanks"giving for 2019.
I am thankful for this year that's been full of transition and change. Change is not always easy, nor is being far from family and friends, but I am settling into my new home and new job. I know I will find and build community here too.
I am thankful for warm weather, palm trees and covered patios.
I am thankful for my husband and son who are on this adventure ride with me. They’ve been troopers as we embrace this new chapter together. I am so grateful for my husband who was willing to following my job change and handled most things during the transition (inc. cooking, school drop off/pick up, play date shuttling, etc.). I'm looking forward to us exploring our new home city and uncovering all the surprises it has in store for us.
I am thankful for these past ten years during which I have been able to see my son grow and come into his own. He’s curious, active, and, at times, funny. I love seeing him navigate all that has been thrown at him and his willing to try new things is inspiring. He’s a pretty cool kid and I’m grateful that he still likes hanging out with his mom.
I am thankful for my parents, brothers and sister. Thank you for putting up with me and for accepting me for me. Thank you for all the memories, fun and stories over the years. I am so lucky to have been born into our formidable Anyaso crew with deep Rawles roots and influences.
I am thankful for my Aunt Shelly who I miss tremendously. So full of life, love and generosity. I am a better person for having had you in my life.
I am thankful for all the people who have believed in and taken a chance on me. I've been blessed with awesome mentors and colleagues along the way. Because of you I have had a very fulfilling educational and professional journey.
I am thankful for my students - past and present. I have learned so much from you over the years. It’s such a privilege to see you grow, face adversity, thrive and come into you own. You have not only helped me become a better educator, but also a better person. Thank you for letting me be a part of your journey.
I'm thankful for every experience that I have had to date - the small victories and the "ugh" failures (aka learning opportunities). Some were joyful, some were challenging and others were downright embarrassing. Regardless, I learned something from each and every one of them. They helped shape who I am today.
I am thankful for all my friends - past, present and future. Whether we are still in touch or not, I am grateful for you being a part of my life for a moment, a season or for a lifetime. Thank you for being there when I needed to talk, laugh, cry or just be. Also, big thanks to those of you (and your families) who took me in for a holiday. I appreciate you welcoming me into your homes.
I am thankful for those little things in life that make us happy and are good for the soul. So in that vein, I am thankful for English Breakfast tea, gummy bears, Hallmark and Lifetime holiday movies (especially the ones that make me shed a tear or two), books, volleyball, pizza, Maryland steamed blue crabs, logic puzzles, comfy clothes, the spa, momcations, going to the movies, and reading and snuggling with my little guy.
I am thankful for each day I have and for all the things I have yet to experience.
Happy Thanksgiving!
