Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Thankful

The fourth Thursday in November is Thanksgiving Day for those of us who live in the U. S. The day is surrounded by traditions and myths and a reminder to be thankful for what we have.

Some of the things for which I’m thankful:

Having met and married a wonderful lady and having 57 years together (so far). A lady who has traveled the country with me; indulged my hobbies, including once having had a rattlesnake in the laundry room (in a secure cage) and a pile of cameras; and enjoyed the bears in the yard.


Our two kids who are now middle-aged adults (hopefully they won’t be offended to be called middle-aged) and nice people with whom we are good friends –

Our three granddaughters, now young adults; one a PhD candidate, one a teacher and one a college student –

That I could spend 52 years working in forest and field, seeing some wonderful and fascinating things along the way and, hopefully, leaving the world a bit better.

My parents who brought me into this world: my mother who helped me catch my first snake and my father who introduced me to the world of forest and field –

 
The cardiologists who twice saved my life and the scientists who developed vaccines for diseases that have, over the centuries, killed millions.

That I can still walk several miles every day to enjoy the woods and waters.

And the natural world: it’s plants and animals; its hills and mountains; streams and lakes and rivers; rain and snow; sunshine and wind and sunsets.

Hopefully you too have things for which to be thankful, not just on Thanksgiving Day but each and every day.

6 comments:

The Furry Gnome said...

I'm thankful for being alive, but did your mother really help you catch your first snake!?

Woody Meristem said...

"did your mother really help you catch your first snake!?"
Yes indeed, it was a garter snake that promptly vomited a half digested frog. The regurgitated frog didn't seem too bother her too much, she was a good sport.

Kim S. said...

So great a tribute to so many. All are outdoors! Your mom/parents and mine sound akin - no lessons of fear of snakes, spiders, etc. needlessly instilled. Nice images and awareness there's much to be grateful for and proud of. Children becoming your friends in adulthood is a treasure. Take care, Woody. We are grateful for having met you. Kim (and M) in PA

Rajani Rehana said...

Mind blowing blog

Marcia said...

Such a nice tribute to your family and those who have touched your life. I too am very thankful especially because few close loved ones have been touched by Covid and those that have recovered without hospitalization. I am thankful too for the vaccine now available to two of my three granddaughters who have had their first shots.

Rain said...

Hi Woody! I love your list and really enjoyed seeing the photos. You have lived a blessed life! I envy how much time you spend in the wild!!