Happy (belated) Thanksgiving! Hope everyone was able to spend some time with loved ones and eat lots of good food. I spent the entire day at my parent’s house and ate waaay more food than I probably should have, but it was perfect. I even got my man to run the DASH Turkey Day 5k with me! Who could ask for more??

Anyway, as per usual for this time of year, I like to look back and think about all I have to be thankful for.

First of all, I’m thankful for my family. As much as I swore I would never live in Watertown again, I’m super happy that I’m close to my parents again, and my siblings aren’t very far either. When I lived out East, I was only able to come home once or twice a year, which meant I would miss out on a lot of family things. Now, not only can I be home with them for holidays like this, but I’m also able to be a part of a day trip to Sioux Falls to go shopping, or a weekend in the cities for a Vikings game, or just a lazy day at home with everyone hanging out. And especially with my little nephew, it’s nice to be around and not miss out on him growing up. 

Next, I’m thankful for my running friends. Especially as we went through marathon training for four months this last year. We spent a lot of time together, and we were there to hear each other vent, listen to our concerns, and share in each other’s exciting life changes. I know I always have a shoulder to lean on or an ear that will listen with them around. And it’s also 20 times better to have someone to run with than to run alone too!

I’m thankful for my new job at NATE and the new people I’ve been able to meet. It’s always scary leaving a job for a new one, but I couldn’t be happier that I made the transition and put myself out there. It’s challenged me and pulled me out of my comfort zone a little bit, but I’ve learned so much and I truly enjoy what I’m doing. I’m excited to see what else I can learn and where it can take me.

I’m thankful for Dobby. He’s the best pup I could have ever asked for, and even though he’s had his share of issues, he’s grown so much since I first brought him home. He used to be terrified of every new person he met, but now you can physically see how much more relaxed he is. He’s a lot more trusting of other people, and he’s started going up to our neighbors and people we walk by like they’re old friends. 

Finally, I can’t even begin to tell you how thankful I am that Dan came into my life. This is our third Thanksgiving together, and each year our relationship only gets stronger and deeper. I notice all the little things he does for me, and how strong he’s been through all the changes that have come this year. Some of the changes required him to go back to the farm a lot more frequently, but he made an effort to spend as much time with me as he could while he was home, and even when he wasn’t, we talked on the phone constantly. Things are starting to slow down a bit now and we’re getting more into a regular routine again. I can’t wait to spend more time with him and see what the next year brings us. 🙂 

I’m thankful for a lot more things, but those are definitely the big ones. My life isn’t perfect, but it is pretty amazing. And I count my blessings everyday for the people and things that are a part of it.

I hope all of you take some time this weekend to think about all the things you have to be thankful for. It may be more than you think! 

Again, I hope everyone is having a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend with loved ones. Hopefully you’re able to take a much needed break from work and are able to gear up for the holidays coming! 

I’m thankful for all of you! 

Until next time! 🙂 

Megan Reiffenberger