Gratitude 2009
It’s been pointed out to me that every Thanksgiving (or possibly more often) I take the time to blog about how I make the best mashed potatoes in the world. Well, this year I’m not going to.
Even though it’s true.
And I’m also not going to go on and on about how the excruciating process I go through to make the Banana Cream Parfait results in what is widely regarded as the best dessert in the world.
Because I’ve done that before, too.
Instead, I’m going to take a few minutes — like I did last year — to list a few of the things I’m thankful for.
Susan
Yesterday I was thinking: When was the last time Susan felt really normal? Well, she was originally diagnosed with cancer about five years ago, so at least that long.
Except five years ago the twins had just turned two — and any parent with twins knows that those first two years aren’t exactly restful. And then of course, before the twins were born Susan was pregnant with them, which was a major ordeal, too.
So: the last time Susan felt really healthy that I remember was about eight years ago. In fact, I remember the last weekend of when she felt healthy: She and I went to Moab to do a charity run (yes, run). I did the half-marathon, she did the five-miler. She remarked afterward that she felt kind of tired during the run. The next Monday, we would find out she was pregnant (we wouldn’t find out about the twin part for a while afterward).
Eight years. That’s just not fair. And yet, she’s dealt with it and continued to take care of us and be exactly the kind of mom and wife her family needs.
Now, of course, I take care of her, and I’m thankful for the chance to repay her a little.
My Kids
While I am writing this, my twins are sitting on the kitchen floor, drawing and singing made-up songs. The twins are always together, taking care of each other and working as a team in ways that nobody but twins (and maybe parents of twins) can even begin to understand.
Last night, the boys — without my asking them to — made dinner, read to Susan, and put the girls to bed. Seeing that I need help, they’ve jumped right in.
I’ve got great kids. I’m thankful for who they are. I should also be thankful to Susan for how they’re turning out, too. Credit where credit’s due.
My Family
It’s funny how when things get really bad I just assume my parents are going to be there to help. I guess that’s an assumption I make easily, because — if they can be — they are. My dad’s in Portugal right now and can’t easily come back home, but my Mom moves heaven and earth to come out and help. And Susan’s mom — in spite of the fact that she has her own mother to take care of — finds a way to come over and help, too.
And then there are my sisters.
When I was a kid, I used to privately feel cheated. Four sisters? Why did I have to have four sisters?
And now I am so glad I have these four sisters. Each as different as can be, but similar in that they are all very strong, practical, smart, and ready to help.
My Neighbors
Not a single day goes by that I don’t lean on my neighbors in some way. They’ve taken my portion of the carpooling to school. They take care of doing the twins’ hair before school. They come over to hang out with Susan. They’ve come and spent the night when I needed to take Susan to the emergency room. They moved stuff and rearranged my living room under vague instructions with no warning to make a new bedroom for Susan.
These are all people who have their own kids, their own jobs, their own troubles. But they make time every day to help us out.
I am very thankful for my neighbors.
The Core Team
I’ve been riding with the same group of guys for about fifteen years now. These are the guys I would rather ride with, eat with, and go on a road trip with than anyone else in the world. It still seems amazing to me that I have such a great group of friends, and that furthermore we all like doing the same stuff.
When I write this blog, I picture the core team as the people reading it. So, if you like this blog, chances are you’d like the guys in the core team. I’m pretty sure my logic is flawed, yet I remain confident in my conclusion.
My Co-Workers
This will make your head explode, but it’s a true story.
A few months ago, my boss told me he had just finished working with our HR person to put a new policy into place: a “vacation donation” program. The idea is that employees can donate their vacation days to another employee.
As soon as this program was announced, employees throughout the company donated about three months worth of vacation days to me.
Wrap your mind around that, if you can. I still have a hard time grasping it, myself.
So: I’m thankful for a good job, for the kind and smart people I work with, a company culture that promotes generosity, and for a CEO that treats his employees like family.
You: My Blog Neighborhood
When Jodi flew out to help take care of my family for a few days, she did it using frequent-flier points gifted by one of you. When Lori flies out next month, she’ll be using frequent flier points from that same person.
When Susan rides in her wheelchair, I remember every time that it was a gift from one of you — an owner of a medical supplies store.
When I got the stair chair setup and the electric scooter, that was using money I got because you bought Fat Cyclist jerseys.
You have sent hundreds of cards. You have sent thousands of email messages.
You have offered to help in every way possible, and several that are not possible.
You have stuck with me as this blog has gone from silly to serious to occasionally desperate.
So, finally: I’m thankful for you.
Happy Thanksgiving, whether you’re in the U.S., or not.
PS: I didn’t plan it this way, but this year my gratitude list consists of nothing but people. So, if you feel like it, keep up the theme by leaving a comment describing someone you’re thankful for, and why.
Comment by eclecticdeb | 11.26.2008 | 1:13 pm
I’m thankful that I have a wonderfully normal smelly 14 year old.
I’m thankful that I have a family that drives me crazy.
I’m thankful that I have friends who actually take the time to keep in touch with one another, hang out, and go on bike rides.
I’m thankful that those friends wait for me at the top of a hill.
I’m thankful for the great people I work with — believe me, it’s no fun working with a bunch of jerks and meanie-butts.
I’m thankful that I’m here. (Car vs. Bike this weekend, Car won).
Comment by monica | 11.26.2008 | 1:17 pm
What a great list Fatty, thank you for sharing. This year I will put at the top of my list that I am thankful for the baby growing in my belly and knowing that so far it is 100% healthy and on target.
Comment by elise | 11.26.2008 | 1:18 pm
Fatty, you are truly blessed.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Oh, and:
I am thankful for the brave men and women who serve this country- in the Military, or in the civilian side of the house. All politics aside, and whether I agree with our government or not, I am thankful for the support of the men and women who have dedicated their lives to the service of our country- and have oft been overlooked of late.
Comment by MikeonhisBike | 11.26.2008 | 1:20 pm
My thankful list includes:
The top of my list my wife. Without her I wouldn’t be much.
My kids. They teach me things I didn’t know every day. Some of those things I really didn’t want to know but I know them now anyways.
Now to the superficial list.
Pie
Mashed potatoes
More pie
Homemade rolls
Integrated shifters
Anatomic bike seats
The internet (Thanks Al Gore)
Fatty’s blog (I look forward to it every day)
Mike
http://www.mikeonhisbike.blogspot.com
Comment by Holly | 11.26.2008 | 1:22 pm
thanks for reminding me to be thankful … for my husband and all 5 loud-ass kids of mine.
Comment by Dan O | 11.26.2008 | 1:23 pm
Thanks Fatty,
This year My wife asked me what I wanted for Christmas, My response was, I had her, I now have a beautiful baby daughter, and I have my health (thanks to a bone marrow transplant this past summer) and that was enough. So, I’m thankful to everyone who made my life this past year more than just bearable, but enjoyable. I’m also thankful to everyone that is doing the same for you this year.
Life is good
Comment by KanyonKris | 11.26.2008 | 1:25 pm
Elden, I’m thankful for you sharing so much of yourself and your family. I’ve been amused and entertained by your humor, but I’ve become a little bit better person from reading about Susan’s (and thus your and your family’s) ordeal with cancer. Seriously. While it’s been painful to read at times, it’s helped me be more empathetic and realize how much good I have in my life.
I also want to say how impressed I am by TwinSix (and the other prize and gift donors) and how they have supported you. These folks have pressure to make a living, and yet they took the bold leap of faith to help you just because it was the right thing to do. That’s awesome. And it boosts my faith in humanity.
Comment by Annie | 11.26.2008 | 1:25 pm
Thank you for sharing.
I am thankful for my husband and my two daughters. I am happier than I ever imagined.
I’m thankful for my parents, who, like yours, would drop anything to help me … and have.
I’m thankful for my sister, my best friend for most of my life.
And, though not a person, I’m thankful for the health of my family, and I try not to take it for granted.
Comment by Woody | 11.26.2008 | 1:27 pm
I’ve been such a whiner lately on my blog. Thank you for helping me get my perspective back.
I do have much to be thankful for:
I have a husband that loves me in spite of my craziness.
I have a father that is still around and just as spry as ever (he learned to wakesurf this summer, he’s 72!)
I have wonderful nieces and nephews that bring great joy to my life (and I can take them home when the joyfulness is over).
I have a great sister and brother that would move heaven and earth for me.
Mostly, I am thankful for a good report from the doctor this week for my husband.
Comment by DanKMTB | 11.26.2008 | 1:30 pm
This may sound a little weak, considering what you’re going through, but somehow it feels appropriate. While it’s no secret I have great friends and family, as well as father who is my best friend and mentor, there is one guy who I feel doesn’t get the credit he is due nearly often enough. He was known as “Captain Bob”. A liveaboard at the marina at which I grew up a marina rat, and one which does not allow liveaboards (which in and of itself should tell you something). He was the Towboat US guy, and the one that, regardless of hour, weather, hell or high water, would always answer a radio call of distress and come help anyone who needed it.
When I was a young kid, Captain Bob took the time to take me under his wing, answer my incessant questions with amazing patience, and joke around with me enough to make me feel like one of the guys, even though I was just a kid. All these years later I can recall his voice declaring “Shut it, Danny” as he saw me coming. Of course he didn’t mean it (well, not entirely, that squeaky kid voice of mine must have gotten to him to some extent), but in an environment where all “the guys” ribbed on each other and treated the kids as well, kids, he made me feel like one of the guys. Sometimes I’d get the drop on him sneaking up, and manage to get out a “Shut it, Captain Bob!” before he saw me. Or maybe he just let me think I got the drop sometimes. I’ll never know.
Captain Bob had a paper route. Not in your normal sense, mind you. Every Sunday morning, being awake before sunrise, when he went to get his coffee he’d grab a stack of papers. Then he’d take his smaller boat (a skiff outfitted with a towing rig that could get into shallow water and tow small boats) out to the moorings at Ipswich Bay, which many of the marina regulars had. He’d deliver the Sunday paper, a smile, and some small talk. Quite out of the ordinary when you’re on a mooring surrounded by nothing but water. When I got old enough to handle boats myself (which was quite young, being a marina rat and all) he handed his paper route over to me. Sunday mornings, I’d get in his skiff, take his papers and run the skiff out to the bay, where I’d deliver papers. It was an awesome sense of responsibility and trust, and I’m sure it helped me become who I am today.
There has been an occasion or two when my family or myself was in a spot, not to mention hundreds of occasions when it happened to others. Taking on water, aground, dead engine, whatever. Captain Bob always answered that radio call, and always came and made it all right, even if that meant towing a boat substantially larger than his on his gunwale, under a bridge with inches of clearance on each side of the boats, and above the larger boat to the bridge, and placing us safely on the dock. All the while pumping out the water that was entering our bilges faster than our onboard pumps could keep up with. Oh, and he didn’t always charge for this. When he did, it was sometimes just to the extent the BoatUS coverage would take care of, so the owner of the disabled boat didn’t have recovery costs piled onto the costs of whatever required the coverage to begin with.
A few years ago, cancer took Captain Bob from us. An injustice if there ever was one, but that’s how cancer seems to work. Nobody would know that better than our host here at fatcyclist.com.
He’s remembered at the annual Chowder Party at the marina, and is talked about amongst the guys. Great memories are shared, and nobody to my knowledge has ever had a bad thing to say about him. I’m sure that in itself is all he’d ever have wanted or hoped for, but to me it doesn’t seem like enough. I feel like his name should be plastered across the marina, the sheds, and the boats. Like his slip should still be empty, in memory of. I’m not sure what it would take for me to feel that his contributions were paid back. I don’t know that it could be done. I do know that he was one of the best men I ever knew, and I was lucky to have known him.
It won’t be enough, not even close, but as of right now I’m making a pledge to do a cancer ride next season in his honor. Perhaps I can get the logo from his shirts (one of which he gave me as a lad), which was a picture of his boat, with it’s name “Domino”, on a jersey. Regardless, it’ll be doing something, and he deserves all the somethings he can get.
Rest in Peace, Captain Bob Hunt. You are not forgotten, and to those of us who were lucky enough to know you, you never will be.
Comment by WheelDancer | 11.26.2008 | 1:33 pm
I’m thankful for too many things to list them all but I am particularly thankful that you have the gift of channeling the grace bestowed upon you so that folks like me can bask in it.
It’s a short list of people that I have encountered who can receive the level of support you are but still end up giving even more back to the community. So as I scramble down the trail of my own troubles and joys I’ll be tagging along on the back of your pack and for that I am thankful.
Thanks Eldon
Comment by Becky | 11.26.2008 | 1:33 pm
I’m thankful for my husband… a lot.
He is REALLY good at his job. I mean really good and tries really hard to be better. He recently changed industries and, while the job is pretty much the same, the industry is miles and away different from where he’s been for the last 10 years. The man is already getting atta-boys and offers for promotion etc. So…brag brag brag…why am I thankful? He doesn’t love his job. I don’t even think he likes it that much. He sort of accidentally fell into this career and is good at it and it makes our lives work but if he had his dream he’d be a middle school Social Studies teacher…and we can’t afford that. And I am thankful that he is willing to make that sacrifice (for now). (Also thankful for wonderful children who occasionally pick their shoes up!).
Happy Gobble!
Comment by BikeCopVT | 11.26.2008 | 1:36 pm
Thank you Elden, and Susan for reminding me, and it seems alot of other people what is really important on quite a regular basis. Family (twins) and friends, enough said.
Win Susan
Elden youve Won
LiveStrong
Comment by Carl | 11.26.2008 | 1:40 pm
I pray the Fatty household has a joyous Thanksgiving.
I am thankful to God, my girlfriend Kim, my kids Kirsten, Kyra, and my little riding buddy Jack, as well as my grandkids, my bike club, and my co-workers.
I am also thankful that I found your blog. Your blog ties us all together through our love of cycling. But, more importantly, you have given us a special gift by showing us what is truly important in life, and the world will be a better place because of you and Susan having shared your lives with us.
Comment by Sigga Hjolina | 11.26.2008 | 1:46 pm
I’m thankful for my 2 boys, 15 and 17, who are healthy and typical teenagers.
I’m thankful that my husband lived after being hit on his bicycle last summer, by a car doing 40 miles/h. That despite all injuries and operations he’s 99% the same person although his armes are still broken. He hasn’t healed yet, it will take at least 2 years. But he lived and kept his wits and humor.
I’m thankful that my dad got to live for 64 years. He died of pancreatic cancer last summer, 3 months after diagnosis.
I’m thankful that my stepmom (dads wife) has lived for 9 years after breast cancer diagnosis. She has now cancer in the hip, neck, liver and lungs. Their sons are 15 and 17.
Truly with hand over heart, I am thankful for the time I have had with my family. At least we got to spend all this time together.
Living in Iceland, in troublesome times I am thankful I have a job, my health and humor. And my family.
Thank you for sharing your life on this blog. All the best to you and your family.
Comment by Sprite's Keeper | 11.26.2008 | 1:46 pm
I am thankful for so much in my life, but right now, right this very moment, I am thankful that Susan and you and the kids are still making memories while you can. Happy Thanksgiving, Elden. For the past 4-5 months I’ve been stalking your site, you’ve been reminding me of the little things I should be thankful for, even when you’re not trying. Thank YOU.
Win SUSAN.
Comment by Uphill Battle | 11.26.2008 | 1:49 pm
I am thankful for your writing, for the lessons you are teaching me about life, grace, and humility. My love and prayers to you, Susan, and those wonderful children of yours.
Comment by anji | 11.26.2008 | 1:52 pm
wow, you have an awesome workplace that would be so thoughtful to give you the greatest gift ever… the gift of time to spend with your loved ones.
Comment by Chrissy | 11.26.2008 | 2:05 pm
I am thankful for you. You put my silly little fight with my husband into perspective and I so thank you for that.
Susan is sure one lucky girl!
happy Thanksgiving!
WIN!!
Comment by aussie kev | 11.26.2008 | 2:07 pm
happy thanks giving fat one.
happy thanks giving susan
k
Comment by lulea | 11.26.2008 | 2:07 pm
I am thankful you are willing to share your thoughts and feelings about your family during the good and hard times. You and your family are very inspiring to me and remind me to think outside of my self more. As for other people in my life I am thankful for…my core group, who is always there when I need them. For my church family who also teaches me how to love others better. My family in all its craziness which would be hard to imagine not in my life. Any for my great coworker who is 80% of the reason I like my job. Oh and of course for sunny November days…in Seattle.
Comment by Paul | 11.26.2008 | 2:09 pm
Definitely my family. I always say that when the day sucks, I at least get to go home again. If work sucks, home is the place I get to retreat to. If a long ride sucks, I’ll be home before I know it. I can think of nothing better than being with the woman I love, the one who allows me to get out and ride, and makes me a better person by being with her. And the four beautiful children we have together challenge and encourage me every day to be the best father possible.
Thanks for your contributions to the inter-world. Praying for you and your family!
Paul
Comment by Jeff | 11.26.2008 | 2:18 pm
Wow! Fatty, you have an amazing life in so many many ways, even though you are experiencing what you are, your eyes are open to so much more that most people don’t get to, or choose to, see. You are an amazing person and have an amazing family. I wish your family the best Thanksgiving ever!
Comment by Jenni Laurita | 11.26.2008 | 2:36 pm
I am thankful for my family, each one of them.
I am thankful for excellent medical care.
I am thankful for the friends I have who listen, advise, and care.
There are many many blessings in all that we go through. I am thankful that I can see them and appreciate them.
I am thankful for this life.
Comment by Tim D | 11.26.2008 | 2:41 pm
Fatty, you put me to shame. I had a meeting yesterday about 30 miles from the in-laws. Instead of going and staying with them, I checked into a hotel. I did go by on my way home and spend a couple of hours chatting with Jayne’s dad. He is in his late 70’s and not too well, but we sat chatting about work and meetings and appraisals and work budgets and how to cheat them and generally I had a nice time and wished I’d stayed the night before after all. I am thankful for the time with them.
I am thankful for my wife of 20 years, Jayne, and am cooking tea for her while she is out at yoga, sea bass on a bed of onions garlic and chorizo (except I don’t have chorizo, so I’ve used salami, don’t think it will matter).
I am thankful for my boys even though they are driving me mad. How come the one who has left home for two years is the most trouble?
I am thankful for the internet, that it allows us to be a very small part of your support network. Having gone through some tough times ourselves (although nothing in the slightest like yours) I know the value of kind words, best wishes and unconditional help. I am thankful to know you and your family, even though we have never met and never spoken.
Happy Thanks Giving from sunny Lancashire (actually its dark and raining) UK
Comment by bobbieh | 11.26.2008 | 2:53 pm
I am thankful…
…to live in a world where people will help out strangers, just because it is the right thing to do.
…to live in a world where strangers can become like family to support someone in need.
…to you, for sharing yours and Susan’s story with us, as my tears let me know how inter-connected people are.
Blessing, sir ~ and many cyber hugs.
Comment by JET(not a nickname) | 11.26.2008 | 3:02 pm
I’m thankful for my son. Almost 9 months ago he was born and not a day goes by that I don’t smile, laugh, or feel overjoyed by his presence. I get to relive a childhood I have forgotten through him, and I can’t think of anything better. And my wife, whom through capabilities beyond me manages to take care of him, go to nursing school, work a part-time job, study, and keep finances and general order in line at the house.
Finally, I’m thankful for the Fat Cyclist blog readers, whom through there many meaningful and heartfelt ways of supporting the Nelson family have restored a little bit of faith in humanity for me.
Comment by BotchedExperiment | 11.26.2008 | 3:03 pm
Wow, the Burton Group sounds like an amazing place to work.
Comment by bikemike | 11.26.2008 | 3:11 pm
I don’t think when blogs started, anyone would’ve guessed this is how they (some) would end up.
It pretty much does this because of you, Elden. Butt kissing aside, yours is the model.
Thankful for God’s love.
Thankful for my family and friends.
Thankful that we can all come together as humans under your blogege (new word) and share with one another.
God Bless you and your family Elden and everyone that reads this ray of sunshine every day.
Comment by Clydesteve | 11.26.2008 | 3:18 pm
Happy Thanksgiving, Nelson family. May God bless you in a phenomenal way.
And Happy Thanksgiving to the Fat Cyclist blogiverse. Be sure and ride off some pie tomorrow morning before you stuff your pieholes. And express gratitude to those you love & appreciate, and the God above who gave them to you.
best wishes,
Steve
Comment by Tez | 11.26.2008 | 3:28 pm
You are such an amazing family!
I am thankful, no, blessed to have a wonderful S.O. in my life who is starting to like biking!
21 years and counting!)
I am thankful for our health.
I am thankful for my friends that get me / us through the tough times.
Most of all I am thankful for your blog to put things into perspective for all of us.
Comment by Hamish A | 11.26.2008 | 3:30 pm
Thanks for the great post Elden. No Thanksgiving celebration over here in the UK but I wish you, your wonderful Family and your great friends (as well as all my fellow FC devotees) a very Happy Thanksgiving.
I’m thankful that I have my Family & Friends who understand me and my ‘eccentricities’, that my Dog has come through her latest round of Surgery ok, that I’ve been presented with the opportunities I have in the past 2 years and that I found your blog and have endeavoured to be a better person since doing so.
Enjoy the Holiday Elden, love to you all.
WIN Susan!
Keep on keeping on, Fatty.
Comment by Derren | 11.26.2008 | 3:52 pm
I’m thankful that I found this Blog a few weeks back and have gotten to know you and your family through your awesome writing. I live not far from you in Park City, and I really am a Fat Cyclist, unlike you.
Your site has made me more appreciative of my family and how meaningless my struggles are as you go through yours and support Susan. May you and your family be blessed during this time.
Comment by Onan the Barbarian | 11.26.2008 | 3:54 pm
Thanks, Fatty, for reminding us all to be thankful.
Have a good turkey day.
(That football ain’t gonna watch itself!)
Comment by erin | 11.26.2008 | 4:00 pm
I am thankful for my Wonderful husband and kids! I don’t know what I would do without them.
Comment by KatieA978 | 11.26.2008 | 4:04 pm
Even though we don’t really DO Thanksgiving here in Australia…
I’m grateful that I have a fabulous family too (I think my parents and yours Elden share the same “helpful parent” gene) who do anything to help out.
I’m grateful that I have a good job, especially since I have a mortgage – and I’m even grateful for the mortgage, cause it means I have a roof over my head.
I’m grateful that I can do maths, cause it means I’ll always have a job, as my current boss can’t. :)
I’m grateful that The Boyfriend doesn’t mind when I come home from sport/work/driving and vent all my daily frustrations. (To be honest, I think he tunes straight out when I say “urgh, today…”)
And I’m grateful to Elden, for sharing stories about his life and his family with us – because you are truly a remarkable family – as are all the “blogbourhood” (a word my friend invented last week which I felt compelled to share).
Comment by Kt | 11.26.2008 | 4:06 pm
Hey, Fatty, great topic. Thanks for you (as in, “thanks for being you”).
I am thankful for my brothers– all three of them, and their wives and children and cats. We’re blessed people, we work and play together and can’t seem to get enough “family together” time. How awesome it is to be on such good terms with the whole family!
I am thankful for my parents– this year is their 40th anniversary, they are awesome people.
I am thankful for my boyfriend– 10 years next year, dear heart, you are an incredible man. You’ve made me a pretty good woman, that’s a feat in itself. Plus, you’re my riding partner, and inspire me to get to the top of hills. You, sir, rock.
I am thankful for my friends– one has Parkinson’s, and it’s amazing how the friend-circle has closed in about her to support her and help her while this crappy disease robs her of the things that make her Gloria. And, they’re all just cool people.
I am thankful for this blog– and all the blogs and people and companies attached to it. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I am thankful for my health, my dog, my bikes… and you folks out there in FattyLand. *hugs*
WIN, SUSAN!!!!!
Comment by Jen W | 11.26.2008 | 4:09 pm
I’m a lurker on your site but I have to comment and say that I’m thankful for this post. It was brilliantly written and a reminder to me to tell my family, and those I care about, that I’m thankful for them.
Comment by Dan C | 11.26.2008 | 4:42 pm
I am thankful for you Mr. Fat Cyclist. No, I’m serious. For the first time in my life, I want to help people, help you and your family and be truly giving this holiday season. I thank you for that spirit.
I really have nothing not to be thankful for. I have a wonderful family, a good job, a garage full of bikes and a dog that loves me.
Happy Thanksgiving and have a wonderful weekend.
Comment by JB | 11.26.2008 | 4:49 pm
Fatty, I am also thankful for finding your blog this year and the wisdom and life you share with us. I have so much to be thankful for, a great life with my wife, three boys and my daughter. I am most thankful for my daughter who is deaf/hard of hearing. I know that you are not supposed to have favorites with your kids but if you knew this young woman…… She is such an inspiration for me as I watch her go about her business in life. Talk about the kid teaching the parent. She always has a smile on her face and a song in her heart, treats people just as you would always want to be treated. She is a straight A student, quite an accomplished basketball player and I am reminded everyday the wonderful upside of youth. Like the example of the Nelson family she keeps me grounded to the important things in life. Happy Thanksgiving Nelson family!!!!!
Comment by Jake | 11.26.2008 | 5:35 pm
Wow, you have an awesome support system with all of those people helping you out. I am a radiation therapist and I rarely see patients who have the support they need from family and friends. You should definitely be thankful to be surrounded by so many good people. I wish you and your family the best on this holiday.
Comment by Di | 11.26.2008 | 6:00 pm
In a time when I am losing faith in people, I am thankful for the bloggers and their visitors who all have messages of great compassion. People like all of you help to keep my faith in people afloat. That contributes to maintaining what little sanity I have left. :-)
Comment by Jabber Jaws | 11.26.2008 | 6:02 pm
I am so thankful for strangers who blog. For people who let me glimpse their life. I, too, am thankful for people. My life obsession is relationships – all kinds and I am so grateful for those who return the passion and put everything into it. I am grateful for a God who knew I was stupid and had a dumb lifeplan so He loved me enough to interfere.
All and all, even when my heart is broken, I am grateful for the feeling and healing – whenever it comes.
Comment by cyclingeurope | 11.26.2008 | 6:36 pm
Wow, you do have so much to be grateful for! Do you realize how much you are teaching the rest of us about gratitude? For that I am grateful!
I teach a lot of Spinning classes, and tomorrow I am leading a Ride for Gratitude, a 90-min pre-turkey burner class (I’m also teaching an Afterburner 90-min class on Friday at another club, with the same gratitude theme).
I am going to ask everyone in the class to write down what they’re grateful for prior to the ride, and to hold on to that piece of paper. Then we’ll climb some hard hills, as metaphors for the challenges in our lives, and arrive at the top filled with gratitude that we CAN overcome anything if we put our minds to it. It’s more attitude than anything else. I know I am going to add you to my list of things to be grateful for, I’ll mention your blog and what I’ve learned from you and your posts and the thoughtful posts by this amazing community.
I already have tears in my eyes!
I also want to add that I am so very thankful for my health and fitness. My family didn’t teach it to me – no one else in my family has fitness or outdoors sports as a passion (in fact most are overweight and unhealthy), no one else bicycles like me, no one skis, no one eats a healthy diet, it just breaks my heart. It’s such an important part of my life and for that I am so very grateful!
Thank you Elden for sharing yourself with us!
Jennifer
Comment by Jaime O. | 11.26.2008 | 6:40 pm
I’m thankful for my family, who stepped in during a very dark hour and did everything for me until I could do for myself again. I’m thankful for friends that carried me when I didn’t have the ability to do for myself…who swept in and did whatever they could to make things work. I’m thankful for my dogs that make me laugh and love me completely every single day … without them I’d feel so alone. They also remind me to be grateful for opposable thumbs. I’m thankful that I can read, that I have good health, and all my physical needs are met. I’m more grateful than any of you can know for the online community that includes this blog – the readers illustrate every day that the world has countless good, generous people in it. It shows us all that when we need someone to lean on that there are people out there with willing, ready shoulders. It shows us there’s no shame in leaning sometimes, not just being support for others. I’m thankful for Fatty sharing his journey here, for showing us his life. It reminds me consistently to be less cynical, more open to those around me, and to love the people in my life with my whole self. Happy Thanksgiving, all. I’m so thankful I found this place.
Comment by judi | 11.26.2008 | 6:49 pm
Thanks Fatty. You wrote a great post. I sit here with tears streaming down my face. You have such a wonderful gift of being the person you are. I wish you the best best for your holidays.
Judi
Comment by MonsieurM | 11.26.2008 | 7:22 pm
I’ thankful for a lot of things and people, including you. Your writing helps to put a lot of things into perspective and it helps us to remind ourselves of the people we care for.
Comment by dawn | 11.26.2008 | 7:36 pm
I’m thankful for the love of my family and friends.
I’m thankful that my twin sister’s cancer was successfully removed and she is still cancer free 1 year later.
I’m thankful that even though my company is laying off folks, and I may be one of them, that my family will still survive.
I am thankful that my 10 year old is healthy after his own health scare this year.
I am thankful that I have somewhere to turn to when I need proof that humans are giving, caring folk.
Comment by Kyra | 11.26.2008 | 7:50 pm
I’ll admit that I have only started to read your blog this past year and half out of laziness (spell check?, that’s way too intense) and half out of being a jaded New Yorker (I have nothing new to comment, really) I actually have never left a comment.
There have been many things that you have written that have gotten me…
I am thankful for so much.
I am thankful for the pretty black and pink jersey I just bought.
I am thankful for you for finding words when I can’t.
A tradition my family has…(no joke) we jump in a freezing New Hampshire lake. It’s awesome in more ways than I can describe.
best,
Comment by jon | 11.26.2008 | 8:07 pm
Others have surely said it, but, I really am thankful for Elden and his family being in this world. In truth I didn’t believe that there could be such a “good” family — I mean a collection of people that consistently do the right thing, look out for others every day, and genuinely love each other and strive to show it.
It’s sappy. I know. But it’s true: Elden is basically my role model at this point. If we were all sort of like Fatty, there would be a huge amount of good floating around this earth! (I’ve tried to explain to my wife what a good person Elden is and what a great family he has. It’s hard to even communicate it without experiencing the very personal anecdotes that Elden has chosen to share with us practically every day,)
I honestly think that Elden and his blog are already having a reach and importance that will be on the scale of Sheldon Brown and his web endeavors. Though I never would have thought this was possible over the Internet, he’s a part of my life. And I’m thankful for that.
Thanks Elden.
Comment by Rick S. | 11.26.2008 | 8:12 pm
Happy Thanksgiving Fatty & family.
Comment by Kathleen | 11.26.2008 | 8:34 pm
My friend Allison changed my life a year ago on Thanksgiving. She encouraged me to swim in the Sea of Cortez, a physical feat I doubted I could do.
But she believed in me and at the end of the swim I had hope in myself again. I hadn’t even realized I’d given up on my health.
I started exercising, then training for a triathlon and the things I was doing were so exciting I started blogging about them and reading other blogs.
My world has transformed this last year and Fatty and his cycling buddies have encouraged me along the way with their antics. I kick butt in my FC jersey!
Comment by Kiwi | 11.26.2008 | 8:37 pm
Happy thanksgiving!
To you and your family!
And yes your kids are great!
Thank Kiwi
Comment by Paula Kirsch | 11.26.2008 | 8:58 pm
Well, firstly Fatty, I am thankful for YOU. You make me think about my own life because of the trials you have dealt with so well, I am thankful that you share what most people would find impossible to. I am thankful for my husband, who is my best friend and who has to deal with me. LOL I am thankful that my parents are still here. My mom is blind now with macular degeneration, and my Dad is in the midst of dementia, but they are still who they are, and I am grateful that they are just here.
Paula
Comment by Cindie Wilding | 11.26.2008 | 9:14 pm
As inspirational as your original post was, I found that the enormity of the responses you received from your community was even more inspiring! As I read through post after post from folks both giving you support and offering their own Gratitude lists, I couldn’t help but think of you as George Bailey with this huge band of support around you! You are really blessed. Awesome.
Thank you for putting things in place because I agree with you that it’s the people in our lives that give it meaning, not any of the things, no matter how wonderful they are.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Comment by Al Maviva | 11.26.2008 | 9:14 pm
Thanks Elden. Thanks for just bein’ you, and sharing your story with us.
Comment by Katie | 11.26.2008 | 9:16 pm
I’m thankful that I can ride my bike.
I’m thankful for the cycling community.
I’m thankful for my family and having a job that I love.
I’m thankful that my Mom survived cancer.
I’m thankful that my Dad survived major heart surgery and still kicks butt on his bike.
I’m thankful that there are people like you to help us all connect to what’s important.
I’m thankful for Sacramento’s Annual Thanksgiving Ride! Wohoo!
Thanks Eldon! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your wonderful family!
Katie
Comment by swtkaroline | 11.26.2008 | 9:48 pm
I’m thankful for many things, but here it seems pertinent (and concise) to say that I am thankful to have found you and your story. Every time I come to your site–particularly days like today–I am reminded that there are some pretty freakin amazing people in the world.
Thanks everyone.
Comment by Jennifer | 11.26.2008 | 9:51 pm
I’m thankful for my wife, my kid, my family, my bikes… (of course, my bikes!) and I’m very grateful for YOU, Fatty! You have made a difference in the world!
Comment by dr_robert | 11.26.2008 | 10:23 pm
I’m thankful for my daughter, who will be 13 months old in a couple days.
Comment by Tim E | 11.26.2008 | 11:03 pm
I’m thankful for my wife of 28 years. She is my rock, my heart, my soul. She has turned back cancer twice.
I’m thankful for my parents, who always encouraged us to try new things.
I’m thankful for my brother and three sisters, who are wonderful people, who do amazing things and raise amazing kids, and for the fact that we all get along!
I’m thankful for the young man I’ve been a Big Brother to, who just graduated from Marine boot camp.
I’m thankful for my cycling friends that I’ve made this year.
I’m thankful for my health (which I need to take a more active role in).
I’m thankful for Fatty and Susan and their kids, who define what a family should be, and for the Fat Cyclist blog family, who remind me constantly that people are still good.
Have a great Thanksgiving, everybody!
Comment by Kris | 11.26.2008 | 11:41 pm
I’m thankful for you, sharing your story with anyone who wants to read it, whether we know you or not (I don’t) – you and your family are very inspiring. Thank you.
Comment by stewOZ & miss | 11.27.2008 | 1:00 am
Thanks Elden and Susan for helping me keep everything in the right perspective. You both continue to amaze me. Happy Thanksgiving.
I am also, always, thankful for ‘miss’.
WIN SUSAN!
Comment by Jenn @ Juggling Life | 11.27.2008 | 1:02 am
I am thankful that my best friend is holding up, moving forward and showing grace after losing her best friend and soulmate, her husband, in April.
Comment by pammap | 11.27.2008 | 3:41 am
Great post, FC. You are truly blessed.
I’m thankful for God because he was my constant companion during a difficult time when I was much younger and alone;
…my husband, Bobby, who is also my best friend;
…my kids and their spouses, I’m truly proud of each of them, they are awesome individuals;
…my grandkids, they are angels, each one, and bring huge joy to my heart;
…my mom who taught me how to have joy through adversity;
…and my friends, each one is a special treasure.
Comment by Brian | 11.27.2008 | 4:04 am
Fatty,
Very nice.
I wore my new Fatty jersey to racing last Friday, only to find a complete stranger wearing his as well. We both thought we had the coolest top, and we did! And you know the even cooler thing – I sound like some of my younger staff! – plenty of people at racing knew the Fatty and Susan story, what the 201 on the sleeve meant, and more importantly, what WIN means. So, there are cyclists here in Newcastle Australia who are thinking of you, Susan and your family, even if none of them post comments here. Stay positive.
Comment by buckythedonkey | 11.27.2008 | 4:52 am
I’d like to thank you for inspiring me to get off my fat arse, get onto a bike and lose some weight. My wife is also grateful for this, as are my children. I cannot fully describe the magnitude of the change this has made to my life and, for that, I am utterly grateful to you.
I’d also love to lrarn the name of the company that employs you. If it us at all possible, I would like my company to do business with companies like yours. I won’t be alone here, I am sure.
A happy Thanksgiving to you, your family, your friends, neighbours, co-workers and to my fellow blog watchers!
WIN SUSAN!!
Comment by Sara | 11.27.2008 | 5:02 am
Happy Thanksgiving Fatty and family!
Once again, great post!
WIN Susan!
Comment by Andy | 11.27.2008 | 6:16 am
Great post FC,
I am thankful for a wonderful Wife who will put up with a jerk like me and a crazy little daughter who will fight me for candy.
Also thankful for the time I was able to spend with a good riding buddy before cancer took him away.
Frack cancer!!
WIN Susan!
Comment by Big Boned | 11.27.2008 | 6:57 am
Fatty,
I’m most thankful for my wife. She’s an amazing woman to be able to put up with me. She makes me a better person every single day. Without her, I’d be lost both figuratively and literally. I also have a “core team”, but unfortunatly they are spread across the country and I get to see them infrequently. I’d do anything for them and I know they’d do anything for me. It’s a great feeling.
I’m also thankful for you and the blog. In the same strange way that others express, I feel I know you. Earlier this summer I was having a really bad day. I got on a plane in a really bad mood. 15 minutes into my flight, the guy sitting next to me (of course I was stuck in a middle seat), noticed my cycling shirt and we struck up a conversation. One thing lead to another and soon we were talking about you. Turns out he knows some of your “core team” and you two have cycled together too. He lives in your neighborhood (probably in the larger sense of the word). The converstaion changed my day. Your blog can also be a day changer for me, so thanks for taking the time to do it, even as you face challenges others of us can not even imagine. Your blog is a little bright spot in a world that often isn’t so nice.
Thank you. Have a GREAT Thanksgiving.
Big Boned
Comment by Elizabeth | 11.27.2008 | 7:00 am
I’m thankful for my dairy-farmer neighbor, who unfailingly plows all the driveways on our road in the winter, and who just as unfailingly can fix the things that I can’t, will help me do the things that need another pair of hands – or will know who can.
I’m thankful for the woman in the next town, with whom I’ll have dinner today. We’ve been there for each other for over 20 years.
I’m thankful for my two sons, grown, sweet, loving, resourceful, who would make any Mom proud and happy.
Finally, I’m thankful for your message, which got me thinking the right thoughts on this Thanksgiving morning.
Comment by chris | 11.27.2008 | 7:26 am
That’s wonderful…
I’m thankful for too many people to mention – my husband Chris, our kids, family, and inspiring people like you and Susan. YOU, Susan, those children of yours, and your generous readers inspire many. What a gift.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Chris (for the rest of the Ross’ too)
Comment by Rupal | 11.27.2008 | 7:58 am
Great T-day post! You are truly blessed with fabulous people in your life, as am I. I can never say thanks enough to them day in and day out.
Thanks to you for making me feel like people still recognize the day for what it represents. Its too often that we get caught up in the annoyances of the holidays to notice the beauty of a day that brings us together to give thanks. There’s so much to be thankful for.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
Comment by Shannon | 11.27.2008 | 8:22 am
I’m Thankful that you bring people together in the midst of your family situations. God Bless
Comment by Pink | 11.27.2008 | 10:12 am
Your blog, when you talk about your family and friends, always makes my eyes leak and I’m grateful that you’re all hanging in there.
I’m also grateful that I’m baking bread for friends, fighting dogs and getting the house ready for Christmas. We are all so blessed.
Have the best Thanksgiving in the world. I think you will make it so.
Comment by Jouni | 11.27.2008 | 10:55 am
I’m thankful for my wife, family and friends.
I’m thankful for smooth roads and tailwinds.
I’m thankful for dark roast coffee.
And, I’m thankful that a blog about bikes has made me less cynical and hopefully a more patient, understanding person.
Thanks Elden, and happy Thanksgiving.
Comment by Eber | 11.27.2008 | 11:12 am
Like others I am thankful for your blog. I’ve been reading for only the past 6 months, but during that time I have tried to be less of a self absorbed career ladder climbing ass and focused more on what really matters.
Thanks for the perspective.
Comment by Tinker | 11.27.2008 | 12:12 pm
Well, I’m thankful for simply being alive and all. I few years ago, I had 4, count them, 4, strokes. Anyone of them could have put paid to my accounts, but I survived them all and without a great deal of deficits. I bitch about living on a fixed income, in what should be my peak earning years, but the truth is that the Social Security system worked as it was designed to do,and I thankful for that as well. I am thankful to have time to sit at home unemployed enjoying life, now that I do not work any more, and thankful that I can afford to do NOTHING. I’m thankful that I can take up a new hobby (bicycling!) at 55, thankful for the ability, for the balance, which I now realize is not a given. Thankful for that realization, too.
(I’ll stop before I get too meta-thankful.)
If you are not sure about your blood pressure, take the time to check it out today, okay? You DO have a lot to lose.
Comment by ian | 11.27.2008 | 1:30 pm
Hey Fatty-
I’ve been reading your blog for over a year now (but never commented) and it’s high time I thank you for all the laughter, smiles and sometimes tears your writing brings me.
I’m sitting in a condo in Moab right now (where it’s pouring rain) thinking of your incredible friends and family. It makes me all the more thankful that I too have a beautiful family and terrific friends.
All the best.
Comment by alice | 11.27.2008 | 2:24 pm
Thankful?! Although it annoyed me that my mother always said all she wanted for Christmas was 3 good children [for others to decide if we made it] I find that’s exactly what I have now…3 wonderful adult children who are good and smart and fun and working. One of them told me about this blog. I’m thankful for that, too.
I’m thankful for the sun in winter and too much pumpkin pie and a fun little Jack Russell who may rule the world…except for me, his alpha…
I’m thankful for a chance to tell anybody who reads this that I’m thankful
AND I’m thankful for Fatty building this community and to Susan and the munchkins who live in it.
Comment by Bjorn 4Lycra | 11.27.2008 | 3:58 pm
First of all I would like to reiterate what Al M and others said but Al kept it so simple. Thanks to you Fatty and family.
We don’t do thanksgiving here in Oz altho maybe we should having read the posts here. In my own little world i would like to thank the two Ambulance Crews, the staff at Modbury Hospital emergency and later the third ambulance crew and staff at Royal Adelaide Hospital that got my daughter through a rather nasty night on Tuesday and the day on Wednesday. It all ended well in the end after starting out very nasty. I would also like to thank Sal my wife who was a rock through all of this.
Comment by Robb | 11.27.2008 | 4:41 pm
I am thankful that Susan has someone like you in her life, and vice versa.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of the Nelson clan.
Comment by Beth from the Funny Farm | 11.27.2008 | 4:46 pm
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours! =)
I’m the most thankful for my husband who puts up with all of my quirks and supports my dreams.
Comment by Anny | 11.27.2008 | 5:05 pm
Happy Thanksgiving Fatty & Family.
I’m thankful for my mom and stepdad, sisters and their families.
Thankful for my awesome 11 year old.
So happy and thankful for having Henry in my life. Thankful for my team mates and all riding buddies, people at work.
Thankful for our ride this morning.
Stay strong Elden.
WIN Susan!
Comment by Susan | 11.27.2008 | 7:41 pm
Fatty,
I’m grateful for your blog. I’m a fat girl who starting riding to get thin (I’m winning!), but more importantly, I’m a health care worker (physical therapist). It’s easy to burn out in health care, the work is hard, the rewards few. But every day, I touch the lives of others. Thank you for reminding me that the extra time I take to smile, to rub someone’s back, smooth out the wrinkles in the bed, (and work on holidays), is important work, even if the people I serve are in such a mire that they can’t find their way to say thank you. I know I make a difference. Thanks for giving me a reason to carry on. Win Susan – your husband is doing a fabulous job! another Susan
Comment by Daddystyle | 11.27.2008 | 10:21 pm
There is good in this world. Embrace it.
You hit it on the head, I am forntunate to have a list similar to yours, [I think our core's/family would get along famously] but…
I am thankful my son survived a terrible car accident while on a training ride with only a brain injury. The best part is he smiles and doesn’t even know it. After 4 years hard work he was hit on an easy spin as he tapered a week before Jr Nationals.
I am thankful I can cry because I am happy, not sad.
I am thankful for 3 wounderful daughters who I love with all my heart.
I am thankful for a wife of 27 years who is a mother, a friend and a lover.
Embrace it all my friend’s. WE love you all.
Comment by sorelegs | 11.27.2008 | 10:43 pm
I am grateful for you Eldon and your family. I had been reading your blog for over a year when I was diagnosed with cancer. You and Susan showed me that it is possible to maintain a positive attitude and to forge ahead in the face of such evilness. It was like watching a buddy pull off a tough move and saying, “if he can do it…”
I know of the immesuarble gifts that you recieve as a family in need (like the donated vacation days) things that you can never pay back, but know that you have paid it forward in big way. Thank you.
Comment by Debamundo | 11.27.2008 | 10:48 pm
I’m not going to do the whole list, just my number one. My dear sweet handsome funny adorable thoughtful fun husband. I’d be hopelessly lost without him.
Comment by bibliogrrl | 11.27.2008 | 11:09 pm
My Mom, and the rest of my family.
This year I quit smoking; went crazy; lost my job; got one I loved more but that paid a LOT less; and had my brain turned inside out. Again. And once again, my mom helped me out when I needed it.
I am so super lucky to have the family that I do. I don’t know what I would do without them.
Comment by Big Boned | 11.28.2008 | 7:51 am
Fatty,
I just read back through this. I may have missed one somewhere, but I didn’t see a I’m thankful for my “new car, boat, 3rd vacation home, or private plane”. I think it says an awful lot that most people were thankful for the people in their lives. That’s a lesson we should think about more often…
BB
Comment by UK Dave | 11.28.2008 | 10:09 am
Fatty,
I’m glad I was looking for a recipe for a really good cake, and found reference to your web site. I’m glad I took a look and have been hooked every day since. I’m glad you can share with us, the world, about your life. And I’m glad because it gives me hope for the trials and tribulations that lie ahead in my life, hope that the population of the world are actually really all great people and glad that maybe all this helps you just a little bit.
Thanks big guy.
A cyclist, a fat one and a friend you’ve never met.
(And proud owner of a Fatty cycling jersey getting it’s first outing at the British Army Triathlon Association winter training camp! Fatty you rock and Twin six rock for helping you!)
Dave (now only ordering t-shirts and cycling tops from TwinSix!)
Comment by frilly | 11.28.2008 | 3:05 pm
Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful for my family. This year has been difficult. Not a cliche’, it has brought us all much closer. Everybody should be so fortunate to have such a great support group. I feel blessed.
Comment by Rachel | 11.28.2008 | 8:47 pm
I am thankful for you, Fatty, for reminding us in desperate and difficult situations to just open your eyes to those around you. I am very thankful for my family and the wonderful, supportive friends I have. I am very blessed, too!
Comment by Cindy | 11.29.2008 | 2:04 pm
First of all, thank you Fatty for sharing your life in this blog. You are an inspiration.
I’m thankful for my sister Debbie, who told me to stay in college. I’m thankful for my brother Leo, who taught me how to drive. I’m thankful for my sister Robin, who comforted me when our younger brother died. She was 4 yrs old and I was 17. I’m thankful for my Mom who taught me how to sew. I’m thankful for my Dad, who replied in same, the first time I told him that I loved him. And I’m thankful for my boyfriend Ron, who is the most loving person I’ve ever met.
Comment by Ms_Merida | 11.29.2008 | 6:29 pm
Not knowing how, I stumbled across your blog.
I’m from Brisbane, Australia, doing a bit of travelling at the moment and have found myself in the heart of Aussie Cycling in Victoria.
Not knowing of this blog for all that long and nor the plight of your couragous wife, however it moves me to read each blog, when i finally get the chance.
I’m proud to ride with my bright pink Fatty drink bottle (even though it doesn’t go with my black and yellow geddup – knicks, jersey, bike.. all of it haha)
Keep winning! & all the best.. In less than a week my family celebrates Dutch Xmas and i can’t make it back.. nor to regular xmas either, in 24 yrs i’ve never missed a family christmas..so to my family and friends i miss terribly – I love you.
Comment by Ms_Merida | 11.29.2008 | 6:34 pm
- Side note.. I’ve come upon my travels with what would fit only in my car. I managed to make room for my bike, and one of the things on my must take list.. my Fatty’s bottle. It’s travelled across 2 states and seen many people in it’s time and maybe someone over here will still and recognise it or ask me about it.
Comment by Beast Mom | 11.30.2008 | 1:47 am
I’m thankful for my husband. He’s a good man.
I’m thankful for my kids. They’re the best.
I’m thankful for old friends who stick by me and like me, even though they REALLY know me.
I’m thankful for people who can laugh and make me laugh and therefore help me keep perspective.
-bm
Comment by Mark | 12.1.2008 | 2:32 pm
I’m thankful there are people like you, your family, your friends, your generous co-workers, your blog fans in the world. That people can be so strong and generous shows just how great human beings can be.
Take care,
Mark
Comment by Kick | 12.2.2008 | 2:53 pm
I’m a little late in posting this, but it’s never too late to be thankful.
I’m thankful for the people I’ve met (or encountered via blog) that have shown me that adversity can be met with grace, strength and courage. Fatty, Susan and their children are an inspiration and I’m grateful that they’ve shared their experience so candidly.
I’m thankful for my loving friends and boyfriend. I don’t have the happiest or healthiest family, but I am blessed with friends who more than make up for that. They have held my hand through some lonely times, and I’ve forever grateful to them.
I hope this doesn’t sound conceited, but I’m also grateful for me. For making healthy choices. For reaching out for help. For being determined to overcome a limited and dysfunctional family. For learning to love myself so that I can love others more fully.
I’m thankful for my bike and for the joy and friendship it brings.
Comment by Renato | 12.4.2008 | 4:47 am
Even though we don’t really do Thanksgiving here in Brasil and I’m reading this post to late…
I’m grateful for my daughter.
I’m grateful that I can ride my bike.
I’m grateful that I have your blog to read and learn.
And I completely agree with Paula Kirsch said.
WIN SUSAN!
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