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From family to free outings: What I'm thankful for

By Kelli Robinson | Statesville R&L

Published: November 27, 2008

Perhaps you've heard of the Thanksgiving Day tradition that involves everyone gathered at the dinner table sharing what they're thankful for.

Maybe your family practices this yearly ritual. Mine doesn't. If I did, I would talk too long, the mashed potatoes would get cold, and my family would get annoyed.

But if we did, these are some highlights of what I'd say. I'm thankful for:

- The dog, because if I didn't take him for occasional walks, I'd have to check "none" when completing a health form that asks how much exercising I do.

- Chocolate and Coca-Cola. Two reasons I need to keep walking the dog.

- My sister. As a child, I double-dared her as much as any big sister would, with many dares ending in tears and one ending with stitches in her hand. Not only does she still love me, she's given me the coolest niece in the world.

- Bean burritos, white cheddar cheese, salad and ranch dressing. If it wasn't for these foods, my daughter wouldn't eat dinner.

- Free kid's cookies at Target: The best bribe for good behavior while shopping.

- High School Musical. Any high school where the class diva hails from the drama department, the high school jock and class genius are a couple, and the entire student body hangs out together is refreshing.

- Washable markers and paints.

- Crockpots and microwaves. There is a reason why I wasn't born during the days of the Pilgrims, and the absence of these two necessities at Plymouth Rock is it.

- My parents. They made sure I had money in my pocket and the knowledge that I could call them anytime, no matter what the situation.

- My in-laws. They made my husband. And they attended the insanity that is Thanksgiving dinner with my family. Twice.

- Public libraries. It's a weekly outing that — gasp — is completely free!

- Falling leaves. At three o'clock in the afternoon, when you reach that "I've-done-all-I-can-do-with-these-kids-today" moment, falling leaves are the perfect playmates. All I have to do is sit and watch.

- My husband and my children. If it weren't for their antics, I'd have nothing to write about, because the cat and dog really aren't very exciting.

I think I'll clip this column, and set it on the side table for my family to read in between the parades and football games. Chances are it will only be used as a coaster, but it's worth a shot.