Here’s to a long list of things to be thankful for

I just returned from a long drive home after visiting my parents and family in northern Iowa. They live on an expansive seven-acre ranch along the Cedar River where turkey and deer roam free.

It was a marvelously relaxing holiday visit.

I am struck by how fortunate and thankful I am to have seen, gathered together for the first time in two years, all five of my siblings, in-laws plus 15 nieces and nephews. Yes, after a couple of days it drove my parents a bit nuts, but in a good way.

I always enjoy the trip back to the small farming community where I grew up. It brings everything into perspective, especially at Thanksgiving. It’s always healthy to celebrate what we do have instead of dwelling on what we don’t.

As you settle back into the rhythm of your workday, I hope the Thanksgiving holiday provided you with an equally enjoyable time with family and friends. Hopefully you too, had the chance to create valuable memories and a long list of things to be thankful for.