Give thanks

I am thankful for President-elect Barack Obama.

I am thankful for the time I got to spend this past year with friends serving our country in the military all over the world. They don't get to come home often enough but when they do we make the most of it.

I am thankful for being in good health, including over a year and half without an episode of paralysis caused by a neuromuscular disorder that a few years ago I feared would have a far worse impact on my life.

I am thankful for hope. Because in a year that has been filled with so much anger, frustration, confusion and desperation it is hope that remains my guiding force to not give up.

I am thankful for the new life that entered my family this year. Beautiful twin boys, Bryce and Bryant, were born in March to my cousin Jennifer and then gorgeous baby girl Ava Nikol this past June to my cousin Stephanie.

I am thankful for the good fortune I've seen come to several of my good friends this past year including an impending marriage as well as academic and career successes.