Oiche Chiuin

It's Gaelic for "Silent Night" and one of the most beautiful renditions I have ever heard - listen to it, when you get a chance, by Enya (I'm listening as I post).  You will be stirred.

Last year, when I was feeling blue around Christmastime, I resolved to reflect more on that for which I was thankful than that which I lacked.  So starting in January I wrote down one thing each day that caused me to feel thankful.  Of course, as with all resolutions a daily notation turned into a weekly one and then a periodic one.  Nevertheless, it's given me the opportunity to look back at all that made this past year special and wonderful (some of which I list below):

On January 2nd I was thankful for blue skies.
On January 21st I was thankful for Jodi.
On February 6th I was thankful for MJ (who kept me from getting too freaked out over a simple stomach virus)
On February 17th I was thankful for a silent house all to myself.
On February 26th I was thankful for new shoes! (OK that might have been posted a few times during the year...)
On March 2nd I was thankful for a parade that made me smile.
On April 19th I was thankful for all of those in law enforcement.
On May 4th I was thankful for the beautiful tree in front of my house.
On May 18th I was thankful for the chance to celebrate another birthday.
On June 9th I was thankful for my GWB teammates Taryn, Chris, John, Warren, Patricia, Joe and Ryan.
On July 10th I was thankful for being able to experience the beauty of Ireland with Taryn and Lisa.
On July 20th I was thankful for my wonderful neighbors.
On August 24th I was thankful for the mother that taught me to work hard and to look good doing it.
On  September 4th I was thankful for being able to watch Addison grow and learn.
On September 25th I was thankful for the New York Yankees
On October 16th I was thankful for dancing in the street.
On October 26th I was thankful to celebrate Ellen and Mark's wedding with my in-laws.
On November 21st I was thankful for the breathtaking and majestic Mt. Rainier
On November 29th I was thankful for Black Friday!
On December 5th I was thankful for good news following my latest PET Scan.
On December 24th - I am thankful for the stunning planet God has fashioned; for the music that makes me want to dance; for the good fortune to be employed; for another year of (relatively) good health; for the friends and neighbors that have stuck by me for years and continue to provide love and support; for the family that both keeps me sane and drives me insane; and for another opportunity to celebrate both the coming of Santa and the holy birth of Jesus.

Blessings and Love to All.