It’s a few days late, but Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I was going to post my blog on the actual day of Thanksgiving, but I was busy spending time with my siblings and fighting through a turkey coma. And even though I told myself I wouldn’t go Black Friday shopping, I ended up spending some time with Molly and Tanner at Menard’s yesterday while they shopped for their new home.

A couple of months ago, I probably would have whined about how much this year sucked, and how I didn’t really have much to be thankful for. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. I have SO much to be thankful for, this year more than ever.

First of all, I got to spend Thanksgiving at home with my family for the first time in almost seven years. No more hearing about what my family did to celebrate, or getting pictures of my dad’s plate of food, because I was there to live it all with them. As blessed as I felt for having others invite me into their home for the holiday, there’s just nothing quite like being in your own home with family. I even FINALLY beat my sister at the wishbone, so some good luck must be coming my way!

I am very blessed to have a great relationship with both of my siblings, and I loved spending time with them over the last few days catching up and goofing off like we used to. Even though it was too short, and my sister had to spend half of it studying, it was great to see them while I could. At this point, I’m not sure who’s more ready for Molly to be done with school – me, or her! I’m ready to spend some time with her where she doesn’t have to constantly worry about studying, and we can relax and do something fun. We might even allow Tanner and Nicki to join in on whatever festivities we choose! 😉

Of course, I am grateful to have two adorable fur babies to snuggle and love on as well. Even though I still miss Zeus, and I will continue to for a long time, I do love having Dobby and Dakota around. Dakota is our cute little baby that we can snuggle with, and constantly comment on how cute she is; and Dobby is my fearless protector who keeps me company (and safe!) as we take on the adventure of living on our own. They are both wonderful, wonderful dogs, and I consider myself very lucky to have both of them in my life. Also, as a side note, I’ve had a lot of people ask me if Dobby is a Rottweiler. He is not! He does kind of look like one, but he’s actually a lab/pointer mix. If you still have doubts, I’ll let you take him on a walk sometime as he nearly rips your arm off trying to hunt down birds and squirrels. 😉

I’m thankful for all the friendships I’ve made since moving back to Watertown, and very glad that I’ve found so many people to come swimming with me! I have to give a shout out to Anneliese, Paula, and Cassandra for swimming with me every now and again, and a super special shout out to Ben, who literally swims with me every time I go! Y’all have saved me from some lonely swims and I am so thankful for you! And of course, I am blessed to get to run with everyone in run club a few times a week. You guys make running much more enjoyable!

Last, but definitely not least, I am beyond grateful for my parents. I can’t even put into words how blessed I am to have my mom and dad. I have had a very difficult year, and they have picked me up from my lowest point to get me back on my feet. My mom dropped everything and flew across the country to help me move my stuff back to South Dakota. They took me in when I had no where else to go, and were patient while I looked for jobs and got over the slump I was constantly in. They have given me my own place to live, and they have helped me take care of Dobby on the days where I work out late. I could literally go on forever about all the wonderful things they have done for me. They are the best parents in the world and I could never repay them for everything they’ve done for me.

Now that Thanksgiving has come and gone, it’s time to get ready for Christmas! I have one of my trees up and plan to put the other one up this weekend. And I should probably start thinking about starting my Christmas shopping! The holiday season is my favorite time of the year and it’s just getting started. Spend time with your loved ones this season and enjoy the holidays while they last!

Until next time!

Megan Reiffenberger