thankful.

!HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

Thanksgiving is great. Turkey & Green Bean Casserole. Football (anyone excited for the KU/MU game... I AM!). Family. A break from work. And, of course, a time for everyone to give their 'I'm thankful for' shout-outs.

Thanksgiving always sneaks up on me. One minute I'm avoiding dressing up for Halloween and the next I'm getting emails from my Mom that I have to make a dish for T-Day (GBC, of course!) and being barraged with the 'what are you thankful for?' question. I'm never fully prepared, so I just throw out what everyone does: family, friends, blah, blah, blah.

I am deeply thankful for my family. And, I'm deeply thankful for my friends. But I thought I would dive a little deeper and give my #6 - 15 thankfulness list...

#6. The work of N.T. Wright. No surprises here. He stretches my thoughtfulness in a deeply refreshing way. His picture of faith and specifically Christianity is coherent and rich. Whenever I read him, I have two resounding thoughts: yesss, I agree, and I want to be like this.

#7. My iPod FM transmitter. This magical white box plugs my iPod into my cigarette lighter and suddenly my iPod plays on my car radio. Doesn't get any better.

#8. Snow Patrol's Eyes Open.

#9. Rome, Italy and my summer there. Billy, Kelly, Will, Caleb, Cole & Wes, I hope Thanksgiving in Trestevere is beautiful and a great celebration! We miss you!

#10. My new job. It's a bit scary to be a grown up now, but it's time. Who knew being an engineer could be such fun!

#11. Walking downtown Lawrence. I didnt realize how much I would enjoy walking Mass St. Late night. Mid-morning. Cold. Hot. Alone. With another. With a whole group. No matter the circumstances, I love it!

#12. Bubble Tea. I believe I finally took the plunge after David P. raved about it (I shouldn't have been tricked... what doesn't David rave about!?!). Delicious. My favorite is the coconut blended bubble tea from Blue Koi in Mid-Town. Feel free to stop by and pick some up for me!

#13. Blogging. Rome made me do it, but I find it a really fun release. I don't blog near as much as I desire, but what I get works for me!

#14. Shows on nbc.com. I'm not sure why NBC waited this long, but seriously... the Office, Chuck, 30 Rock. Love it!

#15. Tazo Green Chai Tea. Legit.

Anyone want to share a few items that are a little lower on their Thankful list?