Giving Thanks for the Little Things in Life

There are many things that I am thankful for this Thanksgiving. I'm grateful for my family and friends, as well as having a job with good benefits in a tough economy. Thanksgiving also seems like a good time to reflect on some of the things that make life more convenient and enjoyable. Here are some of the little things in life that I'm thankful for:

The Internet: I can't figure out now what I did before I was able to look up anything online. It would drive me crazy if I couldn't find out who that actor was from that one movie or what the words are to a song. There might be some incorrect information to wade through first, but the odds are good that what I need to find is there somewhere.

Chocolate: From Snickers bars to French silk pies, I'm happy that chocolate is around in so many forms. Although I might have a little too much of it at times, I still believe that it makes my life just a little bit better.

Pizza delivery: Sometimes I just don't feel like going out, so I'm thankful for the people willing to deliver pizza even when it's snowing outside.

Postal Service: It's really amazing that we can send something all the way across the country for less than a dollar. I appreciate that things can get delivered where they need to go regardless of the weather.

Dictionaries: As a copy editor and writer, I am glad that I can look up the spelling and meaning of most words.

Gloves: When it's cold outside, it is nice to be able to keep my hands warm while still being able to use them.

Parks and forest preserves: I like that there are places where I can spend a little time with nature while getting some exercise for free.

Exercise DVDs: I am glad that when it's miserable outside, I can still get some exercise without having to pay for a gym.

Libraries: It is great to be able to find a book that I have been wanting to read without having to buy it or find somebody to lend it to me.

Street festivals: I enjoy getting to experience some of the music and art of a neighborhood without having to spend too much money.

I am also thankful for having a cat to keep me company as I write and even for the variety of weather in the Midwest, which at least never gets boring. Happy Thanksgiving!