I love this time of year. As soon as Halloween is over, I almost immediately become reflective and grateful and hopeful about the year gone by and the year to come.

I’ve said it over and over how much my life has changed since the summer of 2012. New job. New relationship. New car. New home. New schools, activities and routines with the kids. New priorities. New goals. New focus. New attitude … No new friends, though. Read why.

As I prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday this year, I am beyond grateful for all these things and the people who encourage and support me. I’m humbled by what faith and hard work can do — and a little bit anxious about what the future holds.

I’ll be working through the Thanksgiving holiday this year. I’m fortunate that I can login from home to do the things I need to do — but I’m not taking any real time off. And when I’m not doing work for work, I’ll be studying for my SPHR exam coming up in January … I’m not complaining, just sharing. I feel blessed in the busy-ness of my life. I’ve finally accepted and committed to thriving in this new pace. I’m thankful for that too.

Remember there are people out there who don’t get a break or work from home. Please be kind to them.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Whatever your plans, be safe and enjoy yourself.